News Release
Clarification of interview comments by Mayor Peter Kelly 9:30 AM July 6, 2005
(Wednesday, July 6, 2005) - "During an interview this morning after the launch of a new anti- litter campaign with Tim Horton’s and Clean Nova Scotia, I incorrectly stated that there is a problem with box board in our composting waste stream.
After the interview I consulted staff and I realized my error. The problems encountered in the composting waste stream are excessive amounts of plastic and newspaper. The plastic slows the process and has to be removed by hand adding to the expense of production. All newspaper, with the exception of a wrap for other compostibles, should be in the recycling stream as we have a ready market for it. I apologize for any confusion I may have caused.
Our staff are in the process of investigating what other jurisdictions are doing with regards to composting or recycling Tim Horton’s cups. We are prepared to explore viable options compatible with our system. We will also be inquiring about how the cup might be altered in production to make it either recyclable or compostible."
For your information I include below a recent question and answer session with HRM Solid Waste staff regarding the potential for recycling or composting Tim Horton’s cups.
Q & A
Q1: Why doesn't HRM recycle or compost Tim Horton Cups
A 1: Tim Horton cups contain a plastic liner and plastic of all forms is unacceptable in the compost process. Plastic is considered a contaminant in the compost process and HRM message to residents is to not put plastics into the green cart. Tim Horton cups are also not recyclable. There is no direct market for the recycling of Tim Horton cups. Paper is marketed, but not together with plastics. Plastic is a contaminant..
Q4: Who makes the decision to market a material?
A4: HRM enters into discussions with its facility operators, who are responsible for finding markets for materials, before we change the system.
Q5: Tell me about the litter survey?
A5: According to the 2004 litter survey conducted in NS completed by NSDEL, disposable cups were the most common littered item and Tim Hortons was the most common brand collected. The survey does prove the effectiveness of deposits in addressing the litter issue. In 1989, 72% of all litter was beverage containers. In 1996, NS introduced deposits on beverage containers and in the 1998 litter survey, beverage containers represented just 12% of the litter stream, a reduction in litter of 60% with deposits on beverage containers.
Q6: Do you think deposits on cups is something you would consider?
A6: It would be NSDEL that make that decision, however the litter survey shows the effectiveness of deposits in supporting recovery of cups and market development.
John O'Brien
Corporate Communications Officer
(902) 490-6531
