Environment Week, Tourism Awareness Week Focus on Litter

Provincewide litter pickups were held today, June 10, to mark two national celebrations: Canadian Environment Week, June 5-11, and Tourism Awareness Week in Canada June 6-12.

The departments of Environment and Economic and Rural Development and Tourism wrapped up week-long celebrations by joining forces with Clean Nova Scotia to pick up litter across the province.

Local litter pickups were held by Department of Environment regional offices in Amherst, Port Hawkesbury, Yarmouth, Bedford, and Sydney.

Environment staff from Halifax also joined the Downtown Halifax Business Commission Clean Sweep litter pickup event on June 8.

"Nova Scotia is one of the most scenic and beautiful places in the country," said Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau. "Litter has a negative impact on our environment and on the image of our province. Each and every one of us has a role to play when it comes to disposing of our waste properly. This provincial litter pickup was our way of giving back to communities."

Mr. Belliveau partnered with Barrington Municipal High School's Environment Club and other local environment and tourism groups to hold an Environment Week litter pickup at Stoney Island beach on Cape Sable Island.

Keeping the province clean is everyone's responsibility and not littering is one of the easiest things Nova Scotians can do to help the environment.

"Visitors come to Nova Scotia for its spectacular natural beauty," said Percy Paris, Minister of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism. "Government and industry partners are working together to ensure they can enjoy our amazing outdoor experiences in a pristine environment. We want them to take home wonderful memories of Nova Scotia to share with friends and family."

Many dedicated organizations are working hard to reduce litter in Nova Scotia, including the provincial government, RRFB Nova Scotia, Municipalities, the Adopt-a-Highway program, and Clean Nova Scotia.

Canadian Environment Week is a time for action to help preserve, protect, and restore the environment. The annual event takes place the first week of June and coincides with the United Nations World Environment Day.

Tourism Week in Canada highlights the economic impact and social benefits of Canada's tourism sector. Tourism is an important contributor to Nova Scotia's economy. In 2008, the industry employed more than 31,000 people and generated revenues of $1.82 billion. Events are happening across the province to celebrate including industry meetings, festivals and concerts. For event details visit www.tians.org.

For more information on the Best Thing You'll Never Do campaign or to take an anti-litter pledge go to www.bestthingyoullneverdo.ca .

To organize a litter pickup and for free pickup supplies and information visit the Clean Nova Scotia website at www.nspickmeup.ca .