June 19, 2023, Traditional territory of the Wabanaki Peoples/Fredericton — The Conservation Council of New Brunswick applauds the federal government for tabling the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, otherwise known as the Just Transition Bill. This landmark legislation will create new economic opportunities for both urban and rural Canadians while accelerating progress toward a net-zero economy.
Climate action benefits people and nature, and the Sustainable Jobs Act is an example of the Government of Canada prioritizing community prosperity and accountability to global commitments, including 2030 targets agreed upon through the historic adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework at COP15 in December.
“Coal miners, generating station workers, and all Canadians working in the energy industry have been keeping our lights on for generations. The Sustainable Jobs Act prioritizes transitioning them from fossil fuels to a green economy with the expected creation of up to 400,000 new jobs before 2030,” says Dr. Moe Qureshi, Manager of Climate Solutions at the Conservation Council of New Brunswick. “They need support to advance Canada to a net-zero economy and this significant milestone in the federal government’s commitment towards a reliable and sustainable green economy delivers on that need.”
The Sustainable Jobs Act will be critical to reaching Canada’s 2030 climate goals and achieving net zero. With seven years to 2030, this is a welcomed step towards addressing the dual biodiversity and climate crises while advancing green energy.
We are also pleased to see the Sustainable Jobs Act prioritizes community engagement and social dialogue with Indigenous Peoples, energy industry workers, trade unions, all levels of government, and more. Supporting Indigenous-led conservation and climate solutions is an essential part of reconciliation and ensuring a future for nature.
“The Sustainable Jobs Act strikes a balance between environmental responsibility and economic prosperity,” adds Qureshi. “By valuing and incorporating diverse perspectives, the proposed Act ensures the path towards a sustainable, net-zero economy is inclusive and equitable.”
With specific objectives to be determined in 2025, we look forward to working with all levels of government to advance a comprehensive approach for transitioning to an economy that is both climate-smart and economically prosperous for Canadians coast to coast to coast.
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For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Corey Robichaud, Communications Manager, Conservation Council of New Brunswick | corey.robichaud@
Moe Qureshi, Manager of Climate Solutions, Conservation Council of New Brunswick | moe.qureshi@