Environment and Conservation
December 1, 2014

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Environment and Conservation:

Public Education Campaign Promotes Beverage Container Recycling

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who in 2013-14 collectively recycled more than 162 million beverage containers through the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board’s province-wide network of Green Depots and regional collection facilities.

I applaud their efforts to help keep our province clean and healthy. This is a testament to the passion and commitment of the people of the province and dedication and support of the Green Depot network, Regional Waste Management Authorities, municipalities and schools.

Mr. Speaker, youth - and schools in particular - play a critical role in protecting our environment. Last year, through MMSB’s School Recycling Program, participating schools collectively diverted more than 14.4 million beverage containers from our landfills.

Through recycling, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are protecting our environment for future generations by saving energy, water and valuable natural resources. But there is always more that we can do.

This week, to build awareness about the Used Beverage Container Recycling Program and encourage the people of this province to recycle even more, MMSB is launching a public education campaign. The campaign celebrates the environmental and community benefits of recycling beverage containers, and also highlights the types of containers accepted in the program.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the busy holiday season, it is important for each of us to continue to do our part to protect the environment. I encourage all Honourable Members and members of the public to recycle more beverage containers, more often, and help guide our province toward a greener future.

Thank you.

2014 12 01                        1:50 p.m.