Nova Scotians Asked About Electronic Waste

Nova Scotians are being asked for their input on proposed regulations to ban computers, televisions and other electronic products from landfills.

Nova Scotia Environment and Labour launched a 30-day public consultation on the draft regulations today, Feb. 9.

"Reducing electronic waste is part of our solid waste management strategy to keep Nova Scotia clean and beautiful," said Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash. "We'd like Nova Scotians' thoughts on our proposal to ban a number of electronics from landfills, and have the industry take responsibility for its products."

Electronic waste can contain materials such as mercury, lead and flame retardants which are hazardous to human health and the environment. About 4,500 tonnes of electronic waste will be thrown out in Nova Scotia this year.

Chuck Cartmill is president of C-Vision, an Amherst company that employs 75 people manufacturing lead-free circuit boards for the European market.

"Reducing toxic substances in our products is not only healthy for the environment, but also an opportunity for us to be competitive in the world market," said Mr. Cartmill. "We support the provincial government's initiative on electronic products and look forward to sharing our comments through this consultation."

The draft regulations ban numerous products from landfills, including televisions; computers, printers, scanners and their components; audio and video equipment such as stereos and VCRs; telephones; fax machines; cell phones and other wireless devices; and electronic game equipment.

The draft regulations also outline requirements for electronic products stewardship programs. Brand owners will develop their own programs for designing products with the environment in mind, and restoring and recycling old products. The programs must be approved by the department before implementation.

More information and the draft regulations are available on the department's website at www.gov.ns.ca/enla in the "What's New" section. Comments must be submitted by March 10.