Marine Debris Clean-up Program supports cleaner coastlines, litter prevention, and local partnerships
NOVA SCOTIA: Community groups, seafood industry associations, and environmental organizations across the province can once again apply for funding to support shoreline cleanups, marine debris recycling, and litter prevention efforts through Nova Scotia’s Marine Debris Clean-up Program.
The initiative, launched by the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, aims to reduce the amount of waste reaching provincial coastlines while encouraging recycling and environmental stewardship.
“Clean coastlines benefit local communities and enhance the reputation of our seafood industry as a provider of top-quality products,” Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Kent Smith said. “Our goal is to limit the amount of debris that reaches the shore and increase recycling from cleanup initiatives.”
Organizations can access up to $2,000 per shoreline cleanup event (applications open until February 1, 2026, or until funding runs out), up to $3,000 per litter prevention project, covering 50 per cent of eligible costs (applications close June 30), and up to $5,000 per marine debris recycling project, also covering 50 per cent of eligible costs (applications close June 30).
Kelly Mackarous, Coastal and Marine Program manager with the Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation, says the program has been instrumental in supporting hands-on environmental work across Nova Scotia.
“Through continued support from the Marine Debris Clean-up Program, Coastal Action has been able to continue a range of projects that not only target persistent marine debris on Nova Scotia’s shorelines, but also strengthen our relationships with local partners,” Mackarous said. “The program has been supportive in helping us work towards solutions on the ground and inspire more collaboration toward cleaner coastlines and responsible disposal.”
The announcement comes just ahead of World Ocean Day on June 8, a fitting reminder of Nova Scotia’s 13,000 kilometres of coastline and the importance of preserving its marine environment.
To learn more or apply for funding, visit novascotia.ca/fish/marine-clean-up.