Changes to waste management in Ontario confirmed in new strategy
The Ontario Minister of Environment and Climate Change released the final version of the Strategy for a Waste-Free Ontario: Building the Circular Economy. The publication of a Strategy is a requirement under the Waste-Free Ontario Act which came into force on November 30, 2016.
The strategy outlines the government's plan for shifting from a linear economy to a more sustainable circular economy in an effort to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and to help fight climate change. To facilitate this shift, the government looks to enable efficient and effective recovery systems, enhance provincial direction and oversight, create sustainable end-markets, and increase waste reduction and waste productivity.
The strategy includes 15 concrete actions to build up Ontario's circular economy and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from landfills, such as:
- Requiring producers to take full responsibility for the environmental and financial management of their products and packaging, including small appliances, electrical tools, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, mattresses, carpets, clothing and furniture
- Implementing a framework to reduce the volume of food and organic waste going to landfill
- Requiring industrial, commercial and institutional sectors to divert more of the waste they produce from landfills
- Banning certain materials, such as food waste, beverage containers, corrugated cardboard and fluorescent bulbs and tubes, from disposal and driving creative strategies to reuse and recycle these items
- Improving oversight and accountability in the waste management sector, including by requiring producers to register and report on their waste management activities
This strategy is a significant change in how the waste management system and industry as a whole in Ontario will operate.
How can GHD help?
The legislation and Strategy represents a transformational shift in the management of waste in the Province of Ontario. It also represents a tremendous opportunity for our Solid Waste Team to continue to be a recognized leader and trusted advisor to our current and prospective clients. If you or your clients have any questions about the Strategy and the near-term goals and objectives within the Strategy, please contact:
Blair Shoniker | E: blair.shoniker@ghd.com | T: +1 905 686 6402
Michael Cant | E: michael.cant@ghd.com | T: +1 905 686 6402
Tej Gidda | E: tej.gidda@ghd.com | T: +1 519 884 0510