The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation:

Partnership Enhances Awareness of Climate Change and Air Quality

The Provincial Government is delighted to partner once again with the Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association to support projects and programs that both reduce greenhouse gas emissions in our province and contribute to a healthier environment. With $50,000 support from my department, the Lung Association will work toward advancing activities in the area of climate change and air quality.

Through our partnership, a variety of programs have been delivered such as Tire Pressure Information Clinics; Idling Awareness Campaigns for vehicles, with a particular emphasis on school buses; and a Retire Your Ride program aimed at reducing the number of older, high-polluting vehicles on our roads. All in all, the combined outcomes of these projects are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in this province by more than 2,300 tonnes annually.

I had the pleasure of joining the Lung Association and the Western Newfoundland and Labrador School District in Corner Brook for the launch of their anti-idling campaign. The initiative is aimed at reducing idling around schools and educating drivers on the health and environmental implications of their actions. I witnessed first hand the commitment that these young people have to environmental sustainability. These children even had violation tickets to issue to their parents, family and friends who may potentially idle their vehicles in their presence, and they spoke passionately about how idling affects us all. I am pleased to report that all schools under the Western School District are now idle free. Initiatives like this one are made possible through our support of the Lung Association and their dedication to healthy living and a healthy environment.

We recognize that these initiatives are extremely instrumental in increasing awareness around the issue of climate change and its effects on our province. Partnerships with organizations like the Lung Association also add to the successful implementation of our Climate Change Action Plan. Furthermore, in the recent Speech from the Throne, we committed to consultations on climate change and the development of a discussion document on a climate change policy.

We look forward to maintaining supportive relationships with community partners such as the Lung Association, as we continue to educate the people of the province on climate change and the health benefits that are derived from environmental stewardship.

2010 05 18                                                   1:55 p.m.