Japanese Delegation Studies Nova Scotia's Waste Management Success

Nova Scotia's "waste tourism industry" continues to grow, as the province's recycling and composting initiatives attract a new group of international visitors.

Twenty-three Japanese scientists, academics and local government representatives arrive today, Aug. 30 to learn more about the province's leading edge solid waste-resource management system. Currently, Japan relies heavily on incineration.

"This is another tremendous opportunity for Nova Scotia," said Kerry Morash, Minister of Environment and Labour. "The Japanese delegation gives Nova Scotia businesses and municipalities a chance to showcase their technology, and it also allows us to learn about programs in Japan."

The delegation will spend four days touring Nova Scotia's waste management facilities, including those of private companies that manufacture products from recycled materials.

Mr. Morash said Nova Scotia officials will also take the opportunity to learn about a two-year-old Japanese program for the collection and recycling of electronic equipment. Nova Scotia is currently developing a similar program.

Tour organizers are members of the Tokyo Environmental Research Institute. The institute's mission is to establish a more environmentally sound and sustainable society. Group leaders brought a 28-member delegation to Nova Scotia for a similar visit two years ago.

The visit includes tours of recycling and composting operations in Halifax, Colchester County, Springhill and Hantsport. Members of the Resource Recovery Fund board will also provide their expertise in waste management.

Nova Scotia's Solid Waste-Resource Management Strategy provides economic benefits of at least $31 million per year to the province, according to an independent report released last year.