Solid Waste Strategy Review

Overview

HRM is conducting a Solid Waste Strategy Review. The review began in February 2023, and is expected to take approximately two years to complete. There are several reasons for this initiative, including the need to align the solid waste system with the municipality’s climate change action plan, HalifACT, and contributing towards meeting the Nova Scotia’s goal of reducing the provincial waste disposal rate to 300 kg per capita by 2030. Additionally, an update is needed given that the last review was completed in 2014.

Memos and reports have been prepared to explore different options for updating and improving HRM’s solid waste system. Copies of these documents can be found on the right-hand side of this page. New documents will be added as they are completed.

Public Consultation

The first phase of public consultation for the Solid Waste Strategy Review occurred in the fall of 2023. A survey was available between September 25 and November 27, 2023, and received 1,638 responses. Key themes that emerged from the survey responses:

• The new waste strategy should continue prioritizing initiatives that promote waste reduction, reuse, and recycling of waste resources, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility.
• Working collaboratively to reduce single-use plastic is important.
• It is important that the Strategy align with HalifACT goals and contribute to the 2022 Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act, which aims to reduce Nova Scotia's disposal rate to 300 kg per capita by 2030.

The full Public Consultation Report can be found on the right-hand side of this page.

The next phase of public consultation will begin in the Fall of 2024. Information regarding the next phase of public consultation will be included on this page. Subscribe to SYC to get notices and updates.

Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund

This project is partially funded by the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund, a provincial grant initiative administered by the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities. This fund supports the implementation of initiatives that avoid and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to Nova Scotia’s emission reduction targets.