Environmental Agreement Signed During Trade Mission

Environmental business leaders from Nova Scotia and New England today signed a memorandum of understanding providing for the formal sharing of information and co-operation designed to increase business and trade opportunities.

The agreement between the Nova Scotia Environmental Industry Association and the Environmental Business Council of New England expands their current relationship and is intended to lead to opportunities on both sides of the border.

"We have an excellent working relationship with our American colleagues," said Rick Joseph, executive director of the Nova Scotia group. "The MOU formally recognizes our common goal, which is to encourage business development and promote environmental products and services that contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection."

In the agreement the parties agree to:

• exchange and share information on activities of mutual interest and benefit
• encourage co-ordination and notification of economic missions, training and skills development
• exchange and share information and expertise on environmental protection and enhancement
• exchange and share information on opportunities for strategic alliances and technology transfer and on research and development partnerships
• encourage executive and member participation in the annual general meetings and conferences of each organization
• appoint a member from each organization as a contact and liaison for each group
• consider establishing a joint committee to oversee and review the implementation of this agreement with the intent of meeting annually
• undertake other activities - mutually agreed-upon - in support of, and of benefit to, the organizations and their memberships

Nova Scotia Premier John Hamm was on hand for the signing of the agreement.

"This not only highlights the economic growth interests, but also encourages the sharing of information and expertise that can benefit all of us," said the premier.

The premier said the agreement builds on our long history, fostering business development, trade opportunities, and our common environmental interests.