Science Key To Biosolids Policy

The application of biosolids on land in Nova Scotia will continue only where the practice is supported by science.

Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash made the commitment at a forum on biosolids being held today, June 13, at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Truro.

"I want to be clear today that the land application of biosolids will only continue where the science substantiates the safety of this option," said Mr. Morash.

"Studying the science of waste management made us world leaders in recycling and composting. Studying the science of biosolids will help us address this waste challenge as well."

The forum was organized by Department of Environment and Labour, the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture, and two representatives of the local community.

Eight experts from Canada and the United States are featured in a day of discussions involving the public, industry, and government regulators. Close to 200 people are expected to attend.

Biosolids are organic, stabilized material produced during the treatment of municipal and industrial sludges. They differ from sewage and septage sludges because they have been treated to reduce pathogens.

Halifax and Cape Breton regional municipalities are expected to produce at least 35,000 tonnes of biosolids per year when their sewage treatment systems come on line.

Environment and Labour will use input from the forum in its biosolids management.

Currently, the land application of biosolids is relatively limited in Nova Scotia.