NEIA Launches Industry Engagement Campaign for New Provincial Climate Change Strategy

The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) is launching a campaign to engage the sector on its ideas and priorities for a new provincial climate change strategy.

In June the provincial government began asking for input on a new strategy. It indicates that progress must be made in many aspects of the economy to meet a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 10 percent below 1990 levels by the year 2020.

“It is important for industry to have the opportunity to consider the specifics of a new climate change strategy and be able to provide their input to decision-makers,” said Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Interim Executive Director. Hanley noted that local firms have the products, processes, and expertise to help contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and help communities adapt to climate change.

"The challenges presented by pursuing emissions reductions and addressing adaptation represent business opportunities,” said Hanley. “This campaign is about identifying those opportunities and providing government with guidance on how their strategy can maximize the benefit to the local green economy.”

Hanley said that the green economy represents a promising avenue of diversification for the province. “The federal government is now investing heavily in clean technologies and environmental protection. In recent months our province has introduced legislation addressing large emitters, and has begun the development of a new climate change strategy.” Hanley said it is important for both levels of government and industry to work together in order to capitalize on arising opportunities. “We look forward to working closely with our partners in growing Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy.”

NEIA’s campaign centers around its website. “In addition to promoting our website and soliciting feedback, we will be engaging our members and industry partners individually and directly,” said Hanley. NEIA will provide the Department of Environment and Climate Change with a written submission of recommendations on September 16th.

NEIA is specifically soliciting industry perspectives on: carbon pricing mechanisms; ideas for emissions reductions relating to transportation, building fuels, waste, and industry; adaptive measures; government leadership on climate change; and how businesses and individuals can be empowered to contribute to environmental sustainability and economic growth.

“We are encouraging all who have an interest in the relationship between business and the environment to participate in the campaign,” said Hanley. “Visit www.neia.org/climatechange, or contact us directly.”

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the growth and development of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found here.