Federal government announces $97M investment in clean technology

Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, recently announced an investment of over $97 million under the Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program. This funding is set to bolster 162 projects nationwide, empowering farmers with cutting-edge clean technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

MacAulay unveiled this landmark initiative at Folly River Farms Limited, a 74-year-old family-owned dairy farm nestled in Debert, N.S. As part of the Adoption Stream of the ACT Program, the farm received $49,280 to install a solar energy system, a move aimed at not only reducing operational costs but also mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. By harnessing solar power, Folly River Farms Limited is leading the way in sustainable farming practices.

The ACT Program, a flagship initiative, is designed to support farmers and agri-businesses in developing and adopting the latest clean technologies, fostering a reduction in GHG emissions and enhancing long-term competitiveness. The program focuses on three priority areas: green energy and energy efficiency, precision agriculture, and bioeconomy solutions.

Nova Scotia has seen a remarkable impact from the ACT Program, with 24 projects supported to date, amounting to more than $6 million in funding. The Government of Canada, committed to championing research, development, and adoption of clean technology, remains dedicated to helping the agriculture sector adapt to climate change, ensuring the continued sustenance of both the nation and the global community.

MacAulay emphasized the pivotal role of Canadian farmers in environmental stewardship, stating, “Canadian farmers fully understand the need to take care of the environment, and they are constantly innovating to find new solutions to reduce their emissions. Our investment in the Agricultural Clean Technology Program will help keep our farmers and ranchers on the cutting edge, so they can make their operations more resilient today and for generations to come.”