Who pays for recycling in Nova Scotia is set to change
Recycling is undergoing a significant change in Nova Scotia, with the province transitioning to extended producer responsibility (EPR). This policy shift puts the onus on the producers of packaging, paper, and single-use products to take responsibility for recycling materials they create. Currently, recycling programs in Nova Scotia are funded by municipalities, meaning taxpayers bear some of the cost. However, with the shift to EPR later this year, producers such as brand holders, importers, and retailers will be financially responsible for recycling.
As part of the new measures, producers in the private sector were required to register with Divert NS, a not-for-profit recycling corporation, by January 2024. Despite these changes, Nova Scotians should not notice much difference when the program is implemented on December 1, 2025. Alanna McPhee, the executive director of EPR oversight at Divert NS, assures that recyclable materials will continue to be collected, separated, and sent to end markets.
Divert NS estimates that Nova Scotia municipalities will save between $20 million and $25 million annually with the implementation of EPR. The program is being spearheaded by Circular Materials, a national not-for-profit organization representing producers. Andrew Philopoulos, the managing director for Atlantic Canada, explains that producers are mandated to fund the program’s operations as EPR policies are enacted across the country.
Circular Materials will rely on existing infrastructure to process materials initially, either contracting recycling services directly with municipalities or retaining a recycling collector. Communities have the option to manage their recycling services with support from Circular Materials or opt out, allowing Circular Materials to assume full responsibility for the program. Plans are underway to build recycling facilities in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, funded by producers.
EPR policies have already been in place for electronics in Nova Scotia since 2008, with the Electronic Product Recycling Association overseeing the program. Funding from electronics companies supports the recycling process, ensuring responsible disposal of electronic products. Maylia Parker, the executive director for Atlantic Canada, emphasizes the importance of a collective approach to recycling electronics to ensure sustainability and efficiency.
The program for electronics operates similarly to other recyclable materials, with the association handling the recycling process on behalf of registered producers. Fees charged on the cost of recycling materials are typically passed on to consumers, enabling the collection, disassembly, and sorting of electronics for recycling. Overall, the shift to EPR in Nova Scotia signifies a positive step towards sustainable waste management and environmental conservation.
