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 (under development)
• Phase two: An Adaptation and Resiliency Plan (to be developed in 2025)

The first phase focuses on climate change mitigation—reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing carbon sequestration. This is where our Corporate GHG Emissions Reduction Plan comes into play. This plan is currently under development and available for public comment.

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 will be developed through the creation of an Adaptation and Resiliency Plan beginning in 2025.

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

Northumberland County’s Corporate Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Plan is a strategic initiative aimed at significantly reducing the County’s carbon footprint. It is part of our broader commitment to address climate change and foster a sustainable community for current and future generations. By reducing emissions from County operations and services, the plan seeks to lead by example and inspire action across the entire community.

Key carbon footprint facts

In 2023, total Northumberland County corporate emissions were 27,355 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e), primarily from our landfill (82%), fleet and employee commuting (13%) and our buildings and facilities (5%).

GHG emissions reduction targets

• In 2019, County Council committed to reducing GHG emissions by 30% by the year 2030 and 80% by the year 2050, compared to 2005 levels.
• By 2023, there had already been a 25% reduction in GHG emissions since 2005, despite increased service levels.
• The draft Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan recommends an updated target: a 65% reduction in emissions by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, and net-zero emissions by 2050.

It’s a significant endeavour, but there is a lot at stake for our community if we don’t succeed.

Key objectives

1. Reduce carbon emissions: The plan targets significant reductions in GHG emissions from County-owned buildings, facilities, fleet, and waste management operations. This includes transitioning to low-carbon technologies and enhancing energy efficiency.
2. Enhance sustainability: By implementing sustainable practices in County operations, the plan aims to reduce operational costs, improve energy efficiency, and minimize the environmental impact of County services.
3. Encourage collaboration: The plan aims to foster a culture of climate action within the County and encourages collaboration with community groups, local municipalities, businesses, and residents to achieve shared climate goals.

What the plan hopes to achieve

• Improved waste management: Enhancements in waste management, including landfill gas capture and waste diversion, which will reduce emissions from County operations and promote sustainable waste practices.
• Green fleet transition: The County fleet will transition to low-carbon vehicles, and staff will be trained to reduce fuel consumption, contributing to lower emissions from transportation.
• Net-zero ready buildings: All new County buildings and major renovations will be built to net-zero or net-zero ready standards where feasible, ensuring they are energy-efficient and contribute to reducing emissions.
• Building a culture of climate action: Climate action will be integrated into all aspects of County operations and the County will help to facilitate collaboration across the community.
• Protecting and enhancing the natural environment: Natural heritage systems such as forests and wetlands will be preserved, protected and expanded.
• Advocate and influence change: The County will advocate to other levels of government for policy change and program development and support and implement initiatives that can facilitate the reduction of GHG emissions in the community.

The Corporate GHG Emissions Reduction Plan is about taking decisive action to reduce emissions, conserve energy, protect the environment, and improve the quality of life in Northumberland County. Through focused efforts and community collaboration, the plan aims to create a healthier and more sustainable future for all. You can view the full draft Corporate GHG Emissions Reduction Plan in the document section.

Phase One: Join in the Conversation

Starting September 9 until October 18, Northumberland County is seeking the support of residents and environmental partners to review the draft plan and provide feedback. Your input will help shape the final plan.

How to provide feedback

Please review the draft plan - located in the 'Documents' section on this page. Once you have had a chance to review, you can provide feedback by participating in our short online survey.

Are you an Environmental Partner and would prefer to have a conversation?

Our community is fortunate to have many committed and active environmental champions. We are reaching out to engage with local organizations and individuals who would like to discuss the plan further. If you are interested in a conversation or presentation, please contact Korey McKay through the 'Who’s Listening' section on this page.