People working and living in Nunavut often have limited choices available for cost effective and environmentally sound

management of family and other solid waste. The widespread existence of permafrost, lack of adequate cover material and

remote places make open burning and incineration a common and widespread practice to reduce the quantity of solid waste and

make it less of an attractant to wildlife.  A wide variety of combustion methods are used ranging from open burning on the

ground to high temperature dual-chamber industrial incinerators.  Generally, high temperature incinerators are more expensive

to purchase and operate and cause less pollution than do the less expensive and lower temperature procedures.  However, high

temperature incinerators may safely dispose of a larger variety of waste than can the reduced temperature open burning procedures.

The Guideline for the Burning and Incineration of Solid Waste (the Guideline) isn’t intended to promote or endorse the

burning and incineration of solid waste. It is intended to be a source for conventional, field and business camp

operators, communities and others contemplating burning and incineration as an element of the solid waste management program.

It assesses waste burning and incineration methods that are employed in Nunavut, their dangers and risks and outlines best

management practices which may reduce impacts on the environment, reduce human-wildlife interactions and ensure worker and

public health and safety. This Guideline does not address incineration of biomedical waste, hazardous waste and sewage

sludge. The management of these wastes requires specific equipment, operational controls and training which are beyond the

extent of the present document.

The Environmental Protection Act enables the Government of Nunavut to implement measures to preserve, protect and enhance the

quality of their surroundings. Section 2.2 of the Act provides the Minister with authority to develop, coordinate, and

administer the Guideline.

The Guideline isn’t an official statement of the law. For further information and guidance, the owner or person in control,

management or control of a solid waste is encouraged to review all applicable laws and consult with the Department of

Environment, other regulatory agencies or qualified persons with expertise in the management of solid waste.