Environment Minister pleased recovery rate approaching 70 per cent

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians recycled over 13 million more beverage containers in 2002 than 2001. According to figures released today by the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB), the recovery rate for beverage containers increased eight per cent in 2002 compared to 2001. From January to December, 117,001,869 beverage containers were recycled in the province, compared to 103,687,212 recycled during the same 12 month period in 2001. At the end of this past year, the recovery rate for beverage containers was approximately 68 per cent, which is an 18 per cent increase over a two-year period.

The Minister of Environment, Kevin Aylward said: "This significant increase in the recovery rate since 2001 is to be commended. The programs introduced to encourage more recycling are obviously working. Public education is a key element of the provincial waste management strategy and the awareness created through the Beverage Container Program, administered by the MMSB, is very important."

"There are several factors responsible for these positive results; an increase in the consumer refund in February 2001, undoubtedly had a significant impact," said Gordon Seabright, MMSB chair. "Other factors that contributed to the growth in volumes were the provincial School Recycling Contest, MMSB�s marketing and public education campaign, and an overall increase in consumer awareness of recycling and the environment."

In order to maintain this momentum, MMSB will continue to provide recycling information to the public and launch recycling programs to assist residents, businesses, schools, fundraising groups, and Green Depots in their recycling efforts for beverage containers. One such program is the Open Spaces and Public Places recycling program. Through this initiative, MMSB helps offices, shopping malls, and other public buildings and areas implement a Green Routine. Successful participants are recognized for their great work through a media campaign that highlights their efforts and accomplishments.

The province�s Beverage Recycling Program is administered by MMSB, a Crown agency of the Department of Environment with a mandate to develop, implement, and manage waste diversion programs in Newfoundland and Labrador. MMSB is also responsible for the implementation of the Used Tire Recycling Program, Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program, and the administration of the Newfoundland and Labrador Waste Management Trust Fund.

Media contact:
          Cynthia Layden-Barron, Communications (709) 729-2575
          Karen O�Neill, Communications Officer, (709) 753-0949

2003 01 28                                         4:05 p.m.