Climate Action for a Sustainable Future

Climate change is here. The past ten years were the warmest on record, and Northumberland County is actively responding. We are committed to developing a comprehensive Climate Action Strategy that aligns with our strategic plan objective to address the climate crisis.

While climate change is a global issue, local action is crucial. In Canada, municipalities influence approximately 50% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and are on the front lines of responding to climate impacts. Our Climate Action Strategy aims to protect our environment, build resilience and improve the quality of life for our residents.

The strategy consists of two phases:

• Phase one: The Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan
• Phase two: An Adaptation and Resiliency Plan

The first phase focuses on climate change mitigation—reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing carbon sequestration. This plan was approved by County Council on January 22^nd, 2025.

The second phase focuses on climate change adaptation—coping with the impacts that have already occurred and those that will occur due to climate change. This stage is currently being developed through the creation of an Adaptation and Resiliency Plan.

Phase One: Corporate Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Plan

Northumberland County is taking decisive action to address climate change by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from County operations and services. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns that urgent action is needed to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C, and municipalities like ours play a critical role in achieving this goal.

Following broad public engagement and consultation with stakeholders, the Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan was developed and approved by County Council in January 2025.

In 2023, emissions from County operations totaled 27,355 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e), with landfill waste accounting for 82%, fleet and staff commuting for 13%, and buildings and facilities for 5%. This plan charts a pathway to a 65% reduction in emissions by 2030 and sets us on course for net-zero emissions by 2050.

To achieve these targets, the plan outlines strategies in six key areas:

1. Waste management
2. County fleet and staff commuting
3. Buildings and facilities
4. Building a culture of climate action
5. Natural environment
6. Advocacy and influence

Northumberland County joined the Partners for Climate Protection Program in 2019, joining over 500 Canadian municipalities committed to climate action. This plan represents the first chapter of our Climate Action Strategy, with a Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Plan to follow.

We are committed to measuring and publicly reporting emissions annually through our Performance Dashboard and releasing yearly progress reports. In 2029, we will update the plan to evaluate progress toward our 2030 target and strengthen our roadmap to 2050.

Together, these efforts demonstrate Northumberland County’s leadership and dedication to building a sustainable and resilient future for our community.

Join in the Conversation (Phase One complete)

Consultation has concluded for the Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan. You can review the report in the document section.

Phase Two: Adaptation and Resiliency Plan (in progress)

Northumberland County is already feeling the effects of climate change, with rising temperatures, unpredictable precipitation, and more frequent extreme weather events. These impacts affect everyone, but they disproportionately harm communities and populations already facing systemic inequities.

To address these challenges, Northumberland County is working closely with municipal staff, community partners, and organizations to develop a Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Plan, expected to be completed in early 2026. This plan will focus on reducing climate risks to our community, infrastructure, economy, and natural environment, while building resilience to better manage extreme weather and ongoing changes.

Join in the Conversation: Take the Survey

We need your voice to help shape this plan. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey below and share your perspective. As an added incentive, all survey participants can be entered into a random draw to receive a free emergency preparedness kit - a practical way to help households be ready for extreme weather events.