RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS
Partnership,” says Owen.
systems, retrofitting buildings, improving waste diversion, reducing energy in our water utility, and building to a net-zero standard,” says Owen. “A net-zero climate resilient municipality will see a shift to electric vehicles, supported communities and infrastructure that are able to rebound better and faster from climate hazards like hurricanes, a shift to a green economy, and buildings, both built and retrofitted, that consider climate resiliency and our transition to a low carbon economy.” Premier Iain Rankin announced a $19-million investment in rebates to encourage Nova Scotians to buy electric vehicles and make their homes more energy efficient. Not even COVID-19 interruptions or budgetary restrictions can slow the acceleration of the energy efficiency progress. “We are also working to create the opportunity for partnerships and discussions on how the larger business community can be involved in HalifACT through open forums, such as the Mayor’s recent Economic Roundtable on the Green Economy with the Halifax
HALIFACT ENGAGEMENT SESSION PHOTO CREDIT: HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY HALIFACT TEAM
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We are willing to partner and explore collaboration to advance the actions in HalifACT as it relates to local Halifax businesses.” — Taylor Owen, Climate Change Specialist, Halifax Regional Municipality
Businesses can support the plan by implementing several climate actions. For example, they can transition their transport fleet to electric vehicles, take advantage of energy efficiency programs through Efficiency Nova Scotia, explore solar electricity and start thinking about future climate risks to their business operations. “We are willing to partner and explore collaboration to advance the actions in HalifACT as it relates to local Halifax businesses,” says Owen. On an individual level, everyone has a role to play. Both big and small actions include: • Signing up for climate change related newsletters, webinars and e-courses to help integrate climate solutions into daily life; • Diving deep into the Climate Atlas of Canada; • Getting children involved in climate conversations; • Speaking to a financial advisor about clean energy investments; • Switching to renewables; • Reducing food waste;
