News release

Promoting Pollution Prevention to Industry in Lunenburg

Environment and Labour (Oct. 2000 - March 2008)

ENVIRONMENT/LABOUR--Promoting Pollution Prevention to Industry in Lunenburg


A world-renowned environmental expert is showing members of the Lunenburg Board of Trade how pollution prevention can be good for business and the community, as well as the environment.

Robert Pojasek, an adjunct professor at Harvard University's School of Public Health, is addressing the board today, Feb. 6., as part of his week-long involvement with the Green Business Network, part of a three-year pollution prevention pilot program in Lunenburg.

"We're happy to have Dr. Pojasek provide us with his expertise in the area of pollution prevention," said Ron Russell, Environment and Labour Minister. "His insight will help Nova Scotia industries and communities understand the great benefit of conserving and protecting our environment."

Dr. Pojasek is the sole proprietor of Pojasek and Associates, a firm that specializes in helping organizations with quality management, resource conservation and pollution prevention initiatives.

The Green Business Network consists of representatives of the Department of Environment and Labour, Lunenburg Board of Trade, the town of Lunenburg businesses and Environment Canada. It promotes the environmental and economic benefits of adopting pollution prevention efforts in small- to medium-sized businesses in Lunenburg.

"In the past, businesses have focused on treating pollution after the fact. Preventing pollution before it is created, helps businesses save on costly treatments. At the same time, it helps protect the environment," said Dr. Pojasek. "Everyone benefits."

This week, Dr. Pojasek and an Environment and Labour pollution prevention specialist, Solveig Madsen, are visiting two industries in the Lunenburg area so businesses can see first-hand how pollution prevention can benefit them.

Nova Scotia environmental consultants will be participating in a training workshop during one of the visits. This practical training will provide the consultants with knowledge that can be used in pollution prevention initiatives in communities across the province.

Dr. Pojasek and Ms. Madsen will also visit the Town of Lunenburg's public works garage to help employees identify pollution prevention options and develop an action plan.

"Lunenburg is a working town that enjoys many tourists," Tony Cox, co-chair of Lunenburg Board of Trade. "Having businesses on board to prevent pollution is very important to our town. Many of our businesses are situated within close proximity to the harbour and are already very conscious of waste, but there's always more that we can do. That's why it's a pleasure to have Dr. Pojasek speaking here, today."

Lunenburg's three-year pilot program in pollution prevention is aimed at the town's businesses, residents and school-aged children. It was launched on May 31, 2002.