Examining the effectiveness of municipal reuse centers in Nova Scotia: Benefits and Best Practices

Abstract

One of the major environmental challenges of today is the overconsumption of resources and excessive waste. Municipal reuse centers offer a potential solution, as they work to extend the lifespan of objects otherwise destined for landfill. There are three (3) municipal reuse centers in Nova Scotia, however their impact has yet to be determined. In this study, the impacts of municipal reuse centers on diversion and financial implications of waste management in Nova Scotia were explored. Consultative interviews took place with waste managers in regions with and without reuse centres to gain an understanding of the current waste management practices, as well as the most recent waste tonnages and operational costs. A literature review was completed to compare strategies of reuse centers in other jurisdictions. The results of this study were inconclusive in their application to the Nova Scotian context. However, due to limited empirical data availability, it was not possible to attribute the differences to the reuse center. The study identified the need for further investigation of the material flow patterns of bulky waste within the seven Nova Scotian waste management regions, as there is currently a lack of available data to accurately measure the impacts of reuse centers. Recommendations regarding potential strategies to more accurately measure the impacts of reuse centers are offered with the aim to better support the decision-making process by policy for bulky waste with reuse potential.