Composting is green in principle, but in practice some kinks have to be worked out to ensure the compost that's produced doesn't cause health problems or contaminate our water. CBC Reporter Pam Berman took a look at composting in Nova Scotia. Sewage Problems Reporter Pam Berman talks about the practice of spreading sewage sludge on fields. It became widespread over the past ten years thanks to new environmental rules. The sludge from municipal systems used to be sent to land fills, but that's not allowed anymore since it is considered organic material.
Many people are convinced the practice has serious consequences.
In 2000, industrial sludge from the Aerotech Park near the Halifax Airport was taken to a site in Waterville owned by Twin Mountain Construction. The company was using the material to make top soil. The Department of Environment charged the company with not complying with a cleanup order and the issue is now before the courts. But some neighbours think Twin Mountain Construction should have been charged with not complying with environmental guidelines and that would have sent a stronger message to other companies who handle sewage sludge. According to Environment Canada, good drinking water is free from disease-causing organisms, harmful chemical substances, and radioactive matter.