Canada launches clean technology program for the fisheries and aquaculture industries

ST. ANDREWS, NB, Dec. 18, 2017 /CNW/ - Investing in clean technology for our fisheries and aquaculture industries helps protect our environment, while increasing competitiveness and creating jobs for Canadians.

Today, Karen Ludwig, Member of Parliament for New Brunswick Southwest, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard launched a new program that will provide up to $20 million over four years to help Canada's fisheries and aquaculture industries incorporate existing clean technologies into their day-to-day operations. Potential projects could include; helping fish harvesters convert their vessels to clean alternative fuels, and reducing energy use on aquaculture sites.

Clean technology and innovation are key components of the government's approach to promoting clean economic growth. The Fisheries and Aquaculture Clean Technology Adoption Program will provide funding to help a sector made up of primarily small and medium-sized businesses adopt innovative clean technologies that otherwise may not be possible.

As of today, interested parties can apply for funding through the DFO website at www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/aquaculture/business-entreprises/factap-application-patppa-eng.htm.

Quotes

"Commercial fisheries and aquaculture are important contributors to the Canadian economy and have been providing jobs and income for coastal and Indigenous communities for generations. This program will accelerate the use of sustainable and more efficient tools, practices, and techniques in producing and harvesting Canadian seafood."

The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, P.C., Q.C., M.P.,
Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

"Helping our fish harvesters and aquaculture farms adopt cleaner technology will create even more sustainable seafood for Canada's domestic and export markets. Many of these clean technologies are created right here in Canada, making this investment go even further in providing growth to Canada's economy."

Karen Ludwig
Member of Parliament for New Brunswick Southwest

Quick Facts

• The program aims to reduce the potential negative environmental impact these industries may have on the aquatic ecosystem.
• Clean technology is any product, process, or service that reduces environmental impacts.
• This program focuses on existing technologies and practices, including those that may require changes or adaptations for use in the Canadian fishery and aquaculture sectors.
• The Fisheries and Aquaculture Clean Technology Adoption Program is part of a commitment in Budget 2016 of over $1 billion to support clean technology in Canada's natural resource sectors.

Associated Links

• Apply to the Fisheries and Aquaculture Clean Technology Adoption Program
• NRCAN website on clean tech

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Internet: www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

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SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Maritimes Region