Programs and Partnerships

We work with community organizations to encourage waste diversion in NS.

Our Core Programs

Divert NS operates two initiatives with the help of our partners and everyday Nova Scotians.

Beverage Container Program

Established in 1996, this deposit-refund program involves locally owned and operated Enviro-Depots across the province. In partnership with them, we manage the administration, collection, transportation, and marketing of bottle recycling in NS.

Used Tire Management Program

This initiative, established in 1997, includes the recycling and management of both passenger and bicycle tires. With the help of tire retailers and bicycle shops, Divert NS is able to reuse these materials and also convert them into tire-derived fuel.

Who We Work With

As the agency responsible for promoting waste diversion and reduction in Nova Scotia, Divert NS works in partnership and collaboration with a variety of organizations across the province.

Divert NS partners with a variety of organizations across the province to enhance the environment. Our direction is closely aligned with Nova Scotia’s solid waste management strategy and regulations, as well as the seven solid waste management regions.

Teamwork means we are better able to reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover resources.

Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change

We work with Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change to develop and implement relevant programs, helping the province reach its waste diversion goals through funding and partnership.

Nova Scotia's Solid Waste Management Regions

While Divert NS is not involved in curbside collection, we provide funding to the seven solid waste management regions each year. 70% of our annual net revenue helps fund waste diversion programs, education and awareness contracts, enforcement, and other waste disposal programs.

Enviro-Depots

Divert NS partners with Enviro-Depots to collect recyclables and administer the deposit-refund program in Nova Scotia. There are 78 Enviro-Depot™ locations across the province, collecting a range of recyclable materials.

Canada Plastics Pact (CPP)

The Canada Plastics Pact (CPP) is an independent initiative of the national charity Natural Step Canada. They work to foster a strong and inclusive economy that thrives within nature’s limits.

Adopt-A-Highway Program

We fund Nova Scotia Adopt-A-Highway (AAH), a non-profit organization that encourages volunteers to collect litter, improving the appearance of roadsides, streets and interchange areas. They also run the Great Nova Scotia Pick-Me-Up, the province’s largest volunteer-driven community clean-up program. 

Directions Council

DirectioNS Council for Vocational Services Society is a not-for-profit organization representing 30 member agencies throughout Nova Scotia. The council supports member organizations that promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the everyday activities of their communities. 

Divert NS has formally partnered with Directions Council and is contributing to finance eligible waste diversion initiatives by member and partner agencies in Nova Scotia. Read more about this funding opportunity on the Divert NS LinkedIn page.

Clean Foundation

Clean Foundation is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization working to inspire action through environmental education and tools. Clean runs various fun and educational programs. 

Divert NS also supports the Clean Leadership Summer Internship Program, which provides internships and educates youth on opportunities available to them in Nova Scotia’s green economy. We fund 11 summer internships with municipalities, waste authorities, and organizations involved in solid waste management.

4-H Nova Scotia

4-H is a nationwide, family-oriented, community-based youth organization dedicated to developing young Canadians, encouraging them to become responsible members of society.


4-H helps our youth “Learn To Do By Doing” in a safe, inclusive and fun environment, providing leadership and life skills development opportunities while promoting agriculture awareness.