July 7, 2004, Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Labour Press Release

Independent Report Confirms Success in Waste Reduction

Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash expressed pride today, July 7, that an independent research group has endorsed Nova Scotia's solid waste resource management strategy. His comments follow release of a two-year study by Genuine Progress Index (GPI) Atlantic that concluded Nova Scotia's method of handling solid waste is reducing air pollutants, reducing energy consumption and saving taxpayers money.

"I'm not surprised by the report's conclusions. We've known all along that Nova Scotia is a world leader in recycling and composting," said Mr. Morash. "Our initiatives are creating jobs and diverting thousands of tons of waste from our landfills. And experts from around the world are continually visiting our province to learn from our example."

Mr. Morash credited Nova Scotians for their part in the province's success, saying their adoption of good recycling and composting practices was critical.

The department is currently developing a program to recover and recycle electronics. Stewardship programs are already in place to recycle products like paint, rechargeable batteries and tires.

Proposed changes to the Environment Act, which are open for public comment until Aug. 23, would increase fines for illegal dumping and littering.

FOR BROADCAST USE:

Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash expressed pride today (July 7th) that an independent research group has endorsed Nova Scotia's solid waste resource management strategy.

His comments follow release of a two-year study by Genuine Progress Index (GPI) Atlantic that concluded Nova Scotia's method of handling solid waste is reducing air pollutants, reducing energy consumption and saving taxpayers money.

Mr. Morash says Nova Scotia's initiatives are creating jobs and diverting thousands of tons of waste from our landfills. And experts from around the world are continually visiting our province to learn from our example.

Copyright © 2004 Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Labour