NEWS RELEASE
HRM Launches Major Litter Prevention Campaign
(Wednesday, April 5/06) – Halifax Regional Municipality, in partnership with RRFB Nova Scotia, launched the 2006 Litter Prevention & Education Campaign today at City Hall.
Mayor Peter Kelly and Jim Bauld, Manager Solid Waste Resources, kicked off the campaign by showcasing the advertising and communications that will support the public education component of the new campaign.
The campaign is designed to create greater awareness of the financial and environmental impacts of littering and promote the message that littering is socially unacceptable. The theme is Can You Afford to Litter? – Slam Dunk Your Junk!
In addition to revealing the new advertising and communications campaign, Mayor Kelly also recognized the efforts of one HRM resident for his efforts in the fight against litter in HRM. “Mr. Wilfred Gregg exemplifies the type of environmental stewardship that this campaign will promote, both through HRM and external partners such as Clean Nova Scotia and Adopt-a-Highway,” said Mayor Kelly.
This litter campaign focuses on the financial burden littering imposes on taxpayers. Halifax Regional Police and RCMP have committed to the public education campaign, as well as increased selective enforcement of litter legislation over the upcoming spring and summer months.
“The new campaign focuses on the costs associated with littering including the municipal cost for litter maintenance, the personal cost if a fine is awarded and the long term cost to the environment,” explained Mr. Bauld.
Residents and businesses will see new ads and signage promoting the campaign message of Can You Afford to Litter, which are appearing on local television, Metro Transit buses, HRM litter baskets and at local events.
During Environment Week, June 4-11, 2006, a municipal litter clean up called the “20-Minute HRMakeover” will be held to promote a healthy, clean, sustainable community. It targets the business community by asking for a 20-minute commitment to clean up around their own business, home or school. Promotion of this event will begin in May. The idea is based on the successful 20-Minute Toronto Makeover campaign.
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Mayor Peter Kelly
490-4010
Jim Bauld - Manager, Solid Waste Resources
490-6606
