The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Environment and Climate Change:

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased today to recognize October 18-24 as Waste Reduction Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Multi-Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB) is celebrating Waste Reduction Week through its popular online composting workshops focused on continued composting throughout the fall and winter. They will also have a digital public awareness campaign aligned with theme days and Government House was lit in blue and green on Monday in recognition of the week.

This week and every week, we all need to take time to be environmental stewards and raise awareness about the importance of waste reduction.

The Provincial Government encourages individuals, businesses and schools throughout the province to celebrate Waste Reduction Week and discover alternatives to advance waste reduction. The MMSB’s website contains valuable tips and resources that highlight waste reduction activities and information that the public can use to reduce waste in our province.

Mr. Speaker, we continue to work with the MMSB, regional service boards, businesses and communities to adopt modern waste management practices across the province, including increased waste diversion programs. We have many successful initiatives including extended producer responsibility programs, with more to come.

This week, I encourage everyone to do something with family and friends to help reduce waste in your homes and communities. We can all do our part to reduce waste and protect the environment.

Thank you.