Eco-efficiency and SMEs in Nova Scotia, Canada

This paper describes a study undertaken by the Eco-Efficiency Centre of the levels of eco-efficiency demonstrated by small and medium enterprises in Nova Scotia. The history of eco-efficiency is described and several definitions of the term put forward by the many agencies and organizations promoting it are discussed. Emphasis is placed on definitions used in Canada, particularly those of Industry Canada and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. After reviewing a large number of environmental management and eco-efficiency tools, the Centre determined that none of these were appropriate for small businesses in Nova Scotia and opted to develop its own checklist. The study concludes that levels of eco-efficiency are quite low among businesses in different sectors and furthermore, that more work is needed to find appropriate tools for micro and small businesses that can be more widely used.