Sustainability is increasingly becoming the focus of municipal efforts in Nova Scotia as well as throughout the rest of Canada. There is a growing realization that we must change our ways if we are to address the critical issues of climate change, energy use, and environmental stewardship. By formulating and implementing innovative and beneficial sustainability plans, municipal leadership will not only make policy decisions to foster a prosperous and healthy community but will set an example for its residents to embrace sustainability principles and actions.

Municipal sustainability efforts are aided by encouragement and incentives from the provincial and federal governments. The Canada-Nova Scotia Gas Tax Agreement of 2005 provides for the transfer of revenues from the federal excise tax on gasoline to municipalities. These funds are intended to be directed towards environmentally sustainable municipal infrastructure projects. To participate in this funding program all municipalities are required to prepare an Integrated Community Sustainability Plan.

Download full document: pdf Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (775 KB)