A strategy to build a low-carbon, sustainable agriculture sector that helps address the effects of climate change has been unveiled by the provincial government.

"This strategy is a testament to the government's commitment to our farmers, workers and communities, now and in the future," said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Pat Finnigan. "We are dedicated to promoting a sustainable, low-carbon future for agriculture in New Brunswick while continuing to support jobs, economic growth and food security."

The strategy aims to reduce emissions, enhance resilience and prepare farmers for challenges, such as severe weather, droughts and evolving threats from pests. It also seeks to leverage opportunities, such as longer growing seasons. Areas of focus are:

• Emissions-reduction tracking: Establishing measurable indicators and reporting agricultural greenhouse gas emission reductions through the federal government's National Inventory Report.
• Building resilience: Helping producers adopt innovative technologies and beneficial management practices related to water management, soil health, pest management and sustainable production.
• Establishing a digital information hub: Creating an integrated service platform for agricultural climate programs and services, enabling producers to access information and make informed decisions.

The province's agriculture and agri-food industry contributed $1.2 billion to the GDP in 2024 and supports more than 13,300 full-time equivalent jobs.

According to economic modelling by Stiletto Consulting, climate-related disruptions were responsible for $170 million in lost revenue between 2011 and 2023. Without action, economic losses could exceed $300 million by 2050, further threatening farm profitability, rural livelihoods and food security. The sector accounts for about four per cent of New Brunswick's greenhouse gas emissions.

"Climate change presents challenges for New Brunswick's agricultural sector, from extreme weather to changing growing conditions," said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage. "By helping producers reduce emissions and adapt to these challenges, we can protect our natural resources, strengthen the resilience of our farms and support a sustainable food system for future generations."

The Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries is working with the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick and the National Farmers Union to ensure the strategy meets the needs of farming communities.

"The strategy aligns with the industry strategy developed by the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick. We look forward to working together with the Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries to help our members build resilient, sustainable farms for the next generation," said alliance president Danielle Connell. "New Brunswick farmers are already adapting to a changing climate, and this partnership gives them the tools and support they need to keep producing the food our province depends on."

"The National Farmers Union in New Brunswick has been at the forefront of climate issues for over 50 years, and welcomes the New Brunswick agriculture climate change strategy," said union president Alexis Légère. "Our organization strongly advocates for diversified production, sustainable soil health practices, renewable energy, zero-emission vehicles and collaborative models for equipment- and knowledge-sharing. Viewing farms as unique and complex ecosystems, the National Farmers Union in New Brunswick asserts that reducing agricultural inputs is essential to lowering greenhouse gas emissions while increasing net farm income. We emphasize that the climate crisis is intrinsically linked to the farm income crisis, noting that inputs rather than farming itself generate emissions, and we look forward to policies that support these strategic pillars."

The strategy aligns with federal and provincial government climate change targets. Its development was part of Our Pathway Towards Decarbonization and Climate Resilience: New Brunswick's Climate Change Action Plan 2022-2027.

Related links

Agriculture Climate Change Strategy