Nova Sustainable Fuels received the environmental assessment approval to produce sustainable aviation fuel in Guysborough County.

This is for the first phase of the project that will allow the company to start developing a renewable energy park in Goldboro.

They plan to use waste biomass from Nova Scotia forestry and forest-based industries, including leftover wood chips and bark, to create low-emission aviation fuel to be used as an alternative to petroleum-based fuel.

“Projects like this are crucial to helping to reduce global carbon emissions, while creating jobs and growing our economy,” says Timothy Halman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

“And when we welcome projects like this, it continues to position Nova Scotia as a leader in climate change action, innovation and the global clean energy transformation.”

A second environmental assessment approval is needed before the second phase of a proposed wind energy and solar farm with a transmission line that would supply renewable energy for fuel production.

There are many direct and indirect economic benefits for the local businesses, communities and residents.

The project will create about 1,000 jobs during its construction phase and up to 80 jobs during its operation until 2081.