NEW PROVINCE-WIDE PAINT RECYCLING PROGRAM

Released on March 23, 2006

Starting April 1st, Saskatchewan residents will have a new province-wide paint recycling program with drop-off at 70 SARCAN facilities across the province. Environment Minister John Nilson made the announcement today in Regina.

"Paint disposed in landfills or sewers is harmful to the environment because it contains toxic substances. Recycling is an environmentally effective method of disposing of or reusing waste paint," Nilson said.

"This program is another good example of government working with industry to create a vibrant economy while protecting the environment and providing economic and employment opportunities in the recycling industry."

Beginning April 1st, 2006, consumers who purchase household paint will pay an "eco-fee" that will be collected to finance the program. Fees range from 10¢ for 250 millilitre containers to $1.00 for five to 23 litre containers.

"The paint industry established Product Care Association to manage consumer take back programs for leftover paint," Product Care Association Mark Kurshner said. "Saskatchewan paint consumers will appreciate the convenience of being able to 'do the right thing' with leftover paint, by dropping it at any SARCAN depot, year round. We look forward to working with our Saskatchewan partners to make this program a success."

"SARC, through its SARCAN division, is pleased to provide the infrastructure and support to the new paint recycling initiative announced today by Minister Nilson. This will provide job opportunities for individuals with disabilities and is another step to move toward the government's agenda of a green and prosperous economy," SARC President Dawn Desautel said.

As part of the Government of Saskatchewan's commitment to increase the opportunity and access to expanded waste paint recycling, consultations were held during the development of the program with a number of stakeholders including the paint industry, all levels of municipal government, construction and homebuilder associations and the Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council. Regulations were passed in August of 2005.

The new waste paint stewardship program is similar to the product stewardship models used to develop the Used Oil Material Recycling and Scrap Tire Management Programs. Saskatchewan is now one of four provinces in the country with a province-wide waste paint recycling program.

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For More Information, Contact:

Traci Braaten Environment Regina Phone: (306) 787-1611 Cell: (306) 536-3852