New program to focus on greenhouse gas emission reduction and farm sustainability

FREDERICTON (GNB) - Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved farm sustainability are the goals of a new agriculture-focused funding program.

"New Brunswick farmers are looking for new tools to generate revenue and help the environment," said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Margaret Johnson. "Anaerobic digesters provide an innovative way to reduce waste and generate energy. The Anaerobic Digester Feasibility Studies Funding Program will help farmers plan how they can use this important technology."

Anaerobic digestion involves breaking down biodegradable materials by bacteria without oxygen. The $1.5 million program will offset the cost of feasibility studies for agriculture-focused anaerobic digester development.

One stream of the program is intended for farmers; the other - funded through the Regional Development Corporation - is for non-profits, local governments, regional service commissions and First Nations.

"Anaerobic digesters offer significant greenhouse gas emission reductions for both our agriculture and waste management sectors in the province," said Environment and Climate Change Minister Glen Savoie. "This program shows the progress that we are making towards our commitment on New Brunswick's climate change action plan. Supporting the development of anaerobic digesters in New Brunswick will help the province meet its 2030 emissions reduction target."

ResearchNB will help to prepare funding applications and expedite comprehensive feasibility studies.

"We are excited to be providing a concierge service for farmers in this program," said ResearchNB CEO Damon Goodwin. "Anaerobic digesters are new clean energy business development opportunities, not only for farmers, but also not-for-profits, local governments, regional service commissions and First Nations. These projects can create local clean energy jobs and enhance energy security in New Brunswick while contributing in the fight towards climate change."

Program guidelines and other information is available online. Details on the concierge service are available on the ResearchNB website.