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 (to be developed in 2025)

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 will be developed through the creation of an Adaptation and Resiliency Plan over 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 Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan has 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 find the Corporate GHG Emissions Reduction Plan in the document section.

Phase One: Join in the Conversation (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 experiencing the impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures, unpredictable precipitation, and more frequent extreme weather events. While climate change impacts everyone, it disproportionately affects communities and populations that are already vulnerable due to systemic inequities.

To address these challenges, Northumberland County is collaborating with municipal staff, community partners, and organizations to develop a Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Plan, expected to be completed by early 2026. This plan will focus on mitigating climate impacts to our community, infrastructure, local economy and natural environment. By building resilience, the County aims to better manage extreme weather and ongoing changes.

Residents will have opportunities to provide input and ideas throughout the process. Subscribe to this page to stay informed on project updates and ways to get involved.