Traditional territory of the Wabanaki Peoples/Fredericton – Despite promising to do things differently, the new provincial government’s 2025-26 budget falls short of the bold action needed to address New Brunswick’s growing environmental challenges.
We acknowledge that the government struggled with economic and financial challenges this year. However, instead of making smarter environmental investments, the province cut $7 million in funding for the Climate Action Plan—which is meant to help cut greenhouse gas emissions—while boosting funding for forestry activities by $6.5 million and mining infrastructure by $6 million.
“This budget is a missed opportunity,” says Dr. Moe Qureshi, director of climate research and policy at the Conservation Council. “At a time when New Brunswickers are facing increased climate risks—from worsening storms to coastal erosion—the government has once again failed to invest in the measures needed to protect our communities and environment.”
There were some positive steps, including an $8.7 million increase to the provincial energy efficiency fund, which helps reduce energy use and costs. However, without more ambitious commitments to climate action, New Brunswick risks falling behind while communities continue to face escalating climate threats.
We were disappointed to see the province renew funding for pesticide spraying permits this year despite its commitment to implement recommendations from the standing committee on climate change and environmental stewardship, which included examining a ban on aerial spraying of pesticides.
Electric school buses—an effective way to cut emissions and reduce fuel costs—were not mentioned in the budget, though we hope an additional $2 million for school transportation could support the government’s commitment to electrifying the school bus fleet by 2035.
Unfortunately, this year, the Conservation Council was not invited to join private pre-budget consultations with the government as we have been in the past. We hope that next year, we will be involved in these talks to emphasize the need for decisive action on climate change, clean air and water, coastal protection and a just transition to renewable energy.
“We know there are significant challenges to tackle in this province right now,” says Qureshi. “But New Brunswickers are still calling for real leadership on the environment, not more of the same.”
For more information, or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Corey Robichaud, Director of Communications, Conservation Council of New Brunswick | corey.robichaud@conservationcouncil.ca | 506-458-8747
Dr. Moe Qureshi, Director of Climate Research and Policy, Conservation Council of New Brunswick | moe.qureshi@conservationcouncil.ca | 506-458-8747