Nova Scotians have strong views on solid waste resource management. They are proud of their recycling accomplishments and appreciate the benefits to the environment and the economy that have resulted. This message was loud and clear in many of the submissions received as part of the solid waste regulatory review consultations. Consultation began in May 2014 and took the form of written submission, as well as information sessions with municipalities, stakeholder groups, and the public. About 260 written submissions were received. Stakeholder consultation focused on proposed changes in seven key areas: • Product Stewardship – guiding product stewardship by adding Extended Producer Responsibility regulations for designated products • Disposal Bans and Approval Requirements – adding more items to the disposal ban and strengthening compliance requirements for disposal site operators • Used Tire Management Program – expanding the current regulations to include off-the-road tires • Removal of Requirement for Regional Solid Waste Management Plans – updating regulations to reflect current goals and recognizing that regions will collectively work towards achieving provincial goals • Clarity on Rules for Energy from Waste – revising regulations to ensure materials banned from disposal are also banned from all forms of thermal treatment used to process mixed municipal solid waste. • Improved Enforceability of Solid Waste Regulations – Focusing department enforcement efforts based on risk. Updating definitions and terms to better reflect provincial goals and the Environment Act • Beverage Container Deposit-Refund Program – changing to a deposit/refund with a separate recycling fee, with no immediate change to the fee amount. Any future changes to the recycling fee, if necessary, would be made in an open and transparent way In general, feedback on proposed amendments to Nova Scotia’s solid waste regulations was positive. However, there were also expressions of opposition and concern. Some felt the need for more information and additional details. The loudest concerns were expressed by those individuals and groups who potentially would be most affected by proposed changes to diversion policies and programs. In other jurisdictions, the use of policy tools, including exemptions, have been successful in addressing the concerns of stakeholders who may be disproportionately affected by proposed changes. Individuals, municipalities, and industry were united in their call for a regulatory framework and amendments to solid waste regulations that • are flexible, fair and focused on clear definitions and targets • are harmonized between jurisdictions • create cost effective and efficient programs • provide transparency and accountability The feedback received through this process will help to guide the development of a new strategy and regulations for managing solid waste in Nova Scotia.