Reducing greenhouse gas emissions goal of new N.L. legislation
The Newfoundland and Labrador government has introduced legislation to reduce industrial emissions and set up a fund to promote clean technology.
The Management of Greenhouse Gas Act is "about striking the right balance," Perry Trimper, minister responsible for the office of climate change and energy efficiency, said Tuesday.
According to Trimper, the legislation allows for two years of monitoring emissions to help develop reduction targets.
A fund will also be established to develop technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a fund that is 100 per cent industry funded by companies that produce more than an acceptable level of pollution.
"We welcome the approach that the provincial government has developed and the importance placed on taking local circumstances into account," said Dan Harris, Refinery Manager, North Atlantic Refining Ltd.
"Consulting with industry has ensured that we have been able to bring our perspectives to the table and we look forward to further work with the government to improve our environment."
The province estimates that large industrial players, such as oil and gas companies and the Holyrood generating station, account for 43 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Eastern premiers and New England governors have set a target of decreasing carbon pollution by 35 to 45 per cent from 1990 levels by 2030.