Province Seeks Input on Waste Reduction Strategy

The Province wants to hear from Nova Scotians on ways they can cut down on waste sent to landfills.

Nova Scotia’s target is reducing solid waste to 300 kilograms per person, per year, by 2030 – down from the current estimated 400 kilograms.

"We want to take this opportunity to hear from Nova Scotians because what they share will be essential to building a sustainable future for our province," said Environment and Climate Change Minister Timothy Halman. “I encourage everyone to participate in this crucial consultation process. Your input will help us create a solid waste strategic plan that reflects the aspirations and insights of Nova Scotians as we work together towards reducing our carbon footprint.”

The online public consultation process launched today, August 17, and runs to September 29. It gives residents, businesses, communities and organizations across Nova Scotia an opportunity to provide their ideas on how to reduce solid waste. Input will be used to shape the solid waste reduction plan.

Solid waste refers to things that are thrown away, like trash and unwanted personal and household items. By creating less waste, people can help protect the planet, fight climate change, save money and make sure Nova Scotia is a clean and healthy place.

In the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act, the government committed to grow the circular economy by developing a strategic solid waste reduction plan by the end of 2023.

The circular economy refers to retaining and recovering as much value as possible from resources by reusing, repairing, refurbishing, remanufacturing, repurposing or recycling products and materials.

Quick Facts:

• government has already introduced strategies to reduce waste and promote a circular economy, including several extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs for materials including batteries, lamps, and small household electric appliances, as well as packaging, paper products and other blue bag materials
• the success of a circular economy is measured by the reduction of waste sent to landfills

Additional Resources:

Public consultation website: https://novascotia.ca/circular-economy-and-waste-engagement/

Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act: https://nslegislature.ca/legc/bills/64th_1st/1st_read/b057.htm

Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth: https://climatechange.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/ns-climate-change-plan.pdf