News in Brief:
– Canadian farmers receive a significant boost of over $97 million for adopting clean technologies, championed by the agriculture ministry.
– The agricultural clean technology program’s multi-faceted approach supports 162 projects nationwide, prioritising innovation in green energy, precision agriculture, and bioeconomy solutions.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, has announced a substantial investment of over $97 million in the Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program. This transformative funding will bolster 162 projects nationwide, revolutionising farming practices with cutting-edge clean technologies.
The picturesque setting of Folly River Farms Limited in Debert, Nova Scotia, provided the backdrop for Minister MacAulay’s announcement. The 74-year-old family-owned dairy farm received $49,280 under the Adoption Stream of the ACT Program to install a solar energy system. By harnessing solar power to replace conventional electricity, Folly River Farms significantly reduces its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, setting a precedent for sustainable farming practices.
Focus areas of the ACT program
The ACT Program prioritises three key areas: green energy and energy efficiency, precision agriculture, and bioeconomy solutions. Across Nova Scotia alone, the program has supported 24 projects, totaling more than $6 million in funding. This strategic focus aligns with the government’s commitment to advancing research, development, and adoption of clean technologies, ensuring the agricultural sector’s resilience in the face of climate change.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay emphasized the innovative spirit of Canadian farmers in addressing environmental challenges.
“Our investment in the Agricultural Clean Technology Program will help keep our farmers and ranchers on the cutting edge,” he stated. The program aims to make agricultural operations more resilient today and for future generations by facilitating the adoption of sustainable practices.
Quick facts and future commitments
The ACT Program, through its Adoption Stream, supports 148 projects dedicated to the adoption of clean technologies, prioritising those with substantial GHG emissions reductions. Additionally, the Research and Innovation Stream will fund 14 projects focused on pre-market innovation.
The government’s commitment to reducing emissions and advancing sustainable agriculture includes over $1.5 billion, with $470.7 million specifically allocated to the ACT Program.
As the initiative progresses, up to 414 projects, totaling nearly $196.9 million, have been announced under the ACT Program. These efforts underscore Canada’s dedication to supporting farmers in reducing carbon emissions and developing technologies to adapt to the challenges of climate change.
