Nova Scotia Supports Environmental Technology

Another demonstration of technology that reduces dependence on septage lagoons, lowers transportation costs and creates economic opportunities took place today, Sept. 14, in Canning, Kings Co.

Mark Parent, Minister of Environment and Labour, volunteered to have his home on-site septic system pumped to show his support for the environmental technology.

"I've invited my municipal colleagues and other interested parties to today's demonstration so they would see first-hand how great this technology really is," said Mr. Parent. "We know that with environmental protection, comes economic opportunities and this technology is perfect example of that."

As part of the agreement with the Altinex Group (owners of the dewatering technology), the truck must be used for demonstration purposes only and payment for septic pumping is not permitted. Because Mr. Parent was not allowed to pay to have his septic system pumped, he made a donation to the Friends of the Cornwallis River Group to help with their efforts of environmental protection in Kings County.

Septic pumpers using this technology will have to make fewer trips to and from discharge locations because the new truck can handle 10 times more septage then today's trucks. This will result in savings of about 80 per cent on fuel annually and a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

The truck, which is used throughout Europe, pumps septic systems and then separates the liquids from the solids. The liquid portion is put back in the septic system, which reduces the threat of septic failure. The solid portion may be composted and used in landscaping, land reclamation, silviculture and the creation of biofuels.

The dewatering truck technology is also a more cost-effective system which may encourage septic tank owners to pump more frequently. Several municipal governments and industrial users in Nova Scotia are in the early stages of planning to purchase the technology.