The Northwest Territories is committed to meeting its obligations in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. Budget 2021 includes more than $120 million in expenditures for environment, natural resources and lands, plus capital investments in energy infrastructure.

This information is also available in .pdf format.

2030 Climate Change Strategic Framework

The 2030 NWT Climate Change Strategic Framework (CCSF) is the GNWT’s plan to transition to a lower carbon economy, improve knowledge of climate change impacts, and build resilience and adapt to a changing climate.

In October 2020, the GNWT announced the creation of 15 new positions to meet present and future commitments under Part 2 of the CCSF Action Plan. Budget 2021 provides $2.6 million in new funding to permanently establish these positions and advance this critical work.

Regulations

The GNWT is committed to supporting resource development that prioritizes environmental protection and stewardship. Budget 2021 invests $360,000 to develop regulations for the Mineral Resources Act that do not discourage resource development while still providing the environmental protections that Northwest Territories residents expect.

Carbon Tax and Cost of Living Offset

In keeping our commitment to the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, carbon tax rates will increase to $40 per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions on July 1st, 2021. Although this will add 2.4 cents in additional tax to a litre of gasoline and corresponding increases to other carbon-based fuels, carbon tax rebates will continue and the Cost of Living Offset will increase on July 1st, 2021 to $208 per adult and $240 per child to help residents adjust to the higher carbon price. The carbon tax will also continue to fund the ongoing Large Emitters Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reducing Investment Grant program to support projects that contribute to GHG reductions in the NWT.