The Nova Scotia committee of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE NS) represents more than 100 physicians and health professionals who are concerned for the protection of the environment, recognizing that clean air, water, and land are essential to healthy lives. We also recognize that environmental harms disproportionately affect Mi’kmaq, African Nova Scotian, and rural communities, deepening existing health inequities.
Started in 2021, CAPE NS is committed to bringing an evidence-based health lens to recently proposed uranium exploration and mining, new gas plants, and drilling for offshore gas. The committee also advocates for the protection of conservation and wilderness areas, which are increasingly under pressure to generate short-term economic returns.
CAPE NS is located on the unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq, who have protected the land and waters for thousands of years. The Peace and Friendship Treaties, signed by the Mi’kmaq and British, are recognized and affirmed under Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution.
Our Initiatives
CAPE NS has recently:
- Delivered presentations at town hall meetings and the legislature on the serious health risks posed by uranium exploration and mining.
- Tabled a petition with 7,000 signatures opposing uranium development in the province.
- Issued open letters to policymakers.
- Advocated for the protection of regional parks, conservation lands, and wilderness areas, including Sandy Lake and Blue Mountain-Birch Cove.
- Submitted recommendations in support of active transportation infrastructure and the electrification of the province’s school bus fleet.
- Implemented initiatives to enhance sustainability practices in hospitals, clinics, and across the broader health care system.
- Earned significant media coverage on key issues.