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. . What is waste diversion?. . . . Overview. Why it matters. Keys to success. Resources. Municipal success stories. Getting to 50% and Beyond: Waste Diversion Success Stories from Canadian Municipalities. Types of waste. In Canada (2006):Over 35 million tonnes of waste generated (1,000 kg per person)One-third of the waste disposed in landfills was from residential sourcesThe rest was industrial, commercial and institutional waste.
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1. Notes to speaker:
If desired, add your organization’s logo to the bottom of this slide.
Use this slide as an opportunity to introduce yourself, your role, your interest in waste diversion, and your reasons for presenting to this audience at this time and place. What outcomes (if any) are you seeking? e.g. Are you hoping to raise awareness, build dialogue or change practices?
Note that the slide deck was prepared by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) with financial support from the Green Municipal Fund (GMF), and (if applicable) customized to reflect local needs, conditions and issues.
Note that the presentation is based on a short document on waste diversion published by FCM in 2009. That document is available on the FCM website given at the end of the presentation.Notes to speaker:
If desired, add your organization’s logo to the bottom of this slide.
Use this slide as an opportunity to introduce yourself, your role, your interest in waste diversion, and your reasons for presenting to this audience at this time and place. What outcomes (if any) are you seeking? e.g. Are you hoping to raise awareness, build dialogue or change practices?
Note that the slide deck was prepared by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) with financial support from the Green Municipal Fund (GMF), and (if applicable) customized to reflect local needs, conditions and issues.
Note that the presentation is based on a short document on waste diversion published by FCM in 2009. That document is available on the FCM website given at the end of the presentation.
2. Overview This presentation has five main sections:
What is waste diversion? – Definition, Canadian waste statistics, types of waste, benefits of waste diversion (economic, environmental and social)
2. Why it matters – The major economic, environmental and social benefits
3. Keys to success – The need for a comprehensive approach, and the four key areas of municipal action
4. Municipal success stories – Case studies of municipalities with high waste diversion rates
5. Resources – Where to look for more information
[Note to speaker: There is also an optional slide at the end of the deck called “The way ahead” which is an opportunity for you or someone else to lead a discussion on key issues of local interest.]This presentation has five main sections:
What is waste diversion? – Definition, Canadian waste statistics, types of waste, benefits of waste diversion (economic, environmental and social)
2. Why it matters – The major economic, environmental and social benefits
3. Keys to success – The need for a comprehensive approach, and the four key areas of municipal action
4. Municipal success stories – Case studies of municipalities with high waste diversion rates
5. Resources – Where to look for more information
[Note to speaker: There is also an optional slide at the end of the deck called “The way ahead” which is an opportunity for you or someone else to lead a discussion on key issues of local interest.]
3. Types of waste Municipalities deal with several different types of waste:
Residential waste is generated by both single-family households and multi-family buildings (which usually receive different collection services). It typically consists of about 40% recyclable materials, 40% organic materials, 10% bulky goods and 10% other materials.
IC&I (institutional, commercial and industrial) waste is generated by the institutional, commercial and industrial sectors.
C&D (construction and demolition) waste is generated by construction and demolition activity and is also referred to as CRD (construction, renovation and demolition) waste. It includes wood, scrap metal, drywall, concrete, brick and various packaging materials and can make up as much as 25% of the solid waste going to landfill.
Leaf and yard waste is generated through gardening and landscaping activity. This material is readily processed through open windrow composting (a cost-effective composting method involving piling compostable matter in rows). Leaf and yard waste makes up as much as 10% or more of the residential waste stream.
Source-separated household organic waste includes food waste and various compostable materials generated by a household. This waste stream makes up as much as 25% of the household waste stream.
Recyclable materials are those such as paper, cardboard, metal, glass and some plastics, for which secondary markets are well developed.
Household hazardous waste is residential waste that may be harmful to the environment or human health. Examples of household hazardous waste include paints, solvents, automobile fluids, pesticides and herbicides.
Waste in Canada
In 2006, Canadians produced over 35 million tonnes of waste, or 1,000 kg per person — up eight per cent from 2004. Of the total, 13 million tonnes (37 per cent) came from residential sources and 22 million tonnes (63 per cent) came from non-residential sources. One-third of the waste disposed in landfills was from residential sources, while the rest was industrial, commercial and institutional waste.
Municipalities deal with several different types of waste:
Residential waste is generated by both single-family households and multi-family buildings (which usually receive different collection services). It typically consists of about 40% recyclable materials, 40% organic materials, 10% bulky goods and 10% other materials.
IC&I (institutional, commercial and industrial) waste is generated by the institutional, commercial and industrial sectors.
C&D (construction and demolition) waste is generated by construction and demolition activity and is also referred to as CRD (construction, renovation and demolition) waste. It includes wood, scrap metal, drywall, concrete, brick and various packaging materials and can make up as much as 25% of the solid waste going to landfill.
Leaf and yard waste is generated through gardening and landscaping activity. This material is readily processed through open windrow composting (a cost-effective composting method involving piling compostable matter in rows). Leaf and yard waste makes up as much as 10% or more of the residential waste stream.
Source-separated household organic waste includes food waste and various compostable materials generated by a household. This waste stream makes up as much as 25% of the household waste stream.
Recyclable materials are those such as paper, cardboard, metal, glass and some plastics, for which secondary markets are well developed.
Household hazardous waste is residential waste that may be harmful to the environment or human health. Examples of household hazardous waste include paints, solvents, automobile fluids, pesticides and herbicides.
Waste in Canada
In 2006, Canadians produced over 35 million tonnes of waste, or 1,000 kg per person — up eight per cent from 2004. Of the total, 13 million tonnes (37 per cent) came from residential sources and 22 million tonnes (63 per cent) came from non-residential sources. One-third of the waste disposed in landfills was from residential sources, while the rest was industrial, commercial and institutional waste.
4. Waste diversion directs garbage away from landfills or incinerators through reuse, recycling, composting or gas production through anaerobic digestion. Waste diversion is a key component of effective and sustainable waste management.
In Canada (2006):
77 per cent of waste generated was sent to landfills (about 27 million tonnes)
22 per cent was diverted from disposal (about 7.7 million tonnes)
What is waste diversion? What is waste diversion? Waste diversion directs garbage away from landfills or incinerators through reuse, recycling, composting or gas production through anaerobic digestion. Waste diversion is a key component of effective and sustainable waste management.
Waste diversion in Canada
Of the 25 million tonnes of waste generated in Canada in 2006, 27 million tonnes of waste (about 77 per cent) was sent to landfills or incinerators, while 7.7 million tonnes (about 22 per cent) were diverted from disposal. This means Canada’s national waste diversion rate was 22 per cent.
A waste diversion rate is the percentage of waste diverted out of the total amount of waste generated. Jurisdictions use different rules to define what activities can be counted as diversion.
Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have achieved the highest provincial diversion rates at 41 per cent and 38 per cent respectively. Both provinces have provincial legislation that sets diversion targets. New Brunswick follows closely with a 36 per cent diversion rate. British Columbia and Québec also exceeded the national diversion rate, achieving 32 per cent and 27 per cent, respectively. Newfoundland and Labrador had the lowest diversion rate at 6.9 per cent, followed by Saskatchewan at 11.4 per cent.
What is waste diversion? Waste diversion directs garbage away from landfills or incinerators through reuse, recycling, composting or gas production through anaerobic digestion. Waste diversion is a key component of effective and sustainable waste management.
Waste diversion in Canada
Of the 25 million tonnes of waste generated in Canada in 2006, 27 million tonnes of waste (about 77 per cent) was sent to landfills or incinerators, while 7.7 million tonnes (about 22 per cent) were diverted from disposal. This means Canada’s national waste diversion rate was 22 per cent.
A waste diversion rate is the percentage of waste diverted out of the total amount of waste generated. Jurisdictions use different rules to define what activities can be counted as diversion.
Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have achieved the highest provincial diversion rates at 41 per cent and 38 per cent respectively. Both provinces have provincial legislation that sets diversion targets. New Brunswick follows closely with a 36 per cent diversion rate. British Columbia and Québec also exceeded the national diversion rate, achieving 32 per cent and 27 per cent, respectively. Newfoundland and Labrador had the lowest diversion rate at 6.9 per cent, followed by Saskatchewan at 11.4 per cent.
5. Benefits of waste diversion Waste diversion programs may require an investment to cover capital and operating costs for programs, equipment and facilities, but there are many benefits.
The economic benefits:
Fewer landfill sites are needed, saving the cost of creating new landfills or transporting waste to more distant landfills.
Diversion creates jobs: recycling 14,000 tonnes of waste creates nine jobs and composting it creates seven jobs, but landfilling it creates just one job.[1]
Revenue can be generated from selling compost to the community.
The environmental benefits:
Recycling uses less energy than disposal in a landfill and manufacturing with recycled materials is more energy-efficient than with virgin materials.
The greenhouse gases and toxins generated by landfills and incineration are reduced.
More land is available for agricultural and other uses.
Reuse and recycling conserve resources.
The social benefits:
Reduced landfill usage improves quality of life in adjacent communities and reduces the need for new landfill sites.
Less reliance on landfills and incinerators reduces pollutants and improves health.
Waste diversion encourages environmentally sustainable behaviour.
[1] Brenda Platt and David Morris, The Economic Benefits of Recycling (Institute for Local Self-Reliance, 1993).
Waste diversion programs may require an investment to cover capital and operating costs for programs, equipment and facilities, but there are many benefits.
The economic benefits:
Fewer landfill sites are needed, saving the cost of creating new landfills or transporting waste to more distant landfills.
Diversion creates jobs: recycling 14,000 tonnes of waste creates nine jobs and composting it creates seven jobs, but landfilling it creates just one job.[1]
Revenue can be generated from selling compost to the community.
The environmental benefits:
Recycling uses less energy than disposal in a landfill and manufacturing with recycled materials is more energy-efficient than with virgin materials.
The greenhouse gases and toxins generated by landfills and incineration are reduced.
More land is available for agricultural and other uses.
Reuse and recycling conserve resources.
The social benefits:
Reduced landfill usage improves quality of life in adjacent communities and reduces the need for new landfill sites.
Less reliance on landfills and incinerators reduces pollutants and improves health.
Waste diversion encourages environmentally sustainable behaviour.
6. Keys to success To be truly successful in waste diversion, communities need a comprehensive approach that includes four key areas.
Partnerships and collaboration can be generated with local citizens, organizations, educational institutions, the private sector and the provincial or territorial government. Working together as broadly as possible ensures greater buy-in and participation in diversion programs and can help in creating effective solutions.
2. Convenient options are the nuts and bolts of any waste diversion program. Options for reuse, recycling and composting can include curbside collection or drop-off centres. Programs can be run by the municipality, the private sector, a public–private partnership or even the province. The more widely these options are available (to residents in single-family households and multi-family buildings and to the institutional, commercial and industrial sectors) the easier it is to reach a high diversion rate.
3. Policy and legislation: that support waste diversion efforts are essential. Municipal bylaws limiting waste disposal, charging for garbage collection or banning divertible materials from landfills can help enforce waste diversion practices. Broader policies, such as formal provincial or municipal waste diversion targets, can also motivate change.
4. Education and promotion are key elements in any waste diversion strategy. The public needs to be informed about waste diversion programs and how to participate effectively. Programs can range from visits to residences to educate people about a recycling program, to targeted promotional strategies that encourage and reward waste diversion activities (such as backyard composting).To be truly successful in waste diversion, communities need a comprehensive approach that includes four key areas.
Partnerships and collaboration can be generated with local citizens, organizations, educational institutions, the private sector and the provincial or territorial government. Working together as broadly as possible ensures greater buy-in and participation in diversion programs and can help in creating effective solutions.
2. Convenient options are the nuts and bolts of any waste diversion program. Options for reuse, recycling and composting can include curbside collection or drop-off centres. Programs can be run by the municipality, the private sector, a public–private partnership or even the province. The more widely these options are available (to residents in single-family households and multi-family buildings and to the institutional, commercial and industrial sectors) the easier it is to reach a high diversion rate.
3. Policy and legislation: that support waste diversion efforts are essential. Municipal bylaws limiting waste disposal, charging for garbage collection or banning divertible materials from landfills can help enforce waste diversion practices. Broader policies, such as formal provincial or municipal waste diversion targets, can also motivate change.
4. Education and promotion are key elements in any waste diversion strategy. The public needs to be informed about waste diversion programs and how to participate effectively. Programs can range from visits to residences to educate people about a recycling program, to targeted promotional strategies that encourage and reward waste diversion activities (such as backyard composting).
7. Keys to success For each key to success, municipalities have multiple options. The idea is to choose steps that are appropriate to the local community, for a comprehensive approach tailored to the individual needs of the municipality.
The first key to success – partnerships and collaboration – includes several options:
Ensure buy-in to diversion programs through multi-stakeholder collaboration.
Adopt a regional waste management program that serves multiple small, rural or remote communities.
Establish partnerships with the private sector.
Take advantage of supportive provincial/territorial legislation to drive change.
For each key to success, municipalities have multiple options. The idea is to choose steps that are appropriate to the local community, for a comprehensive approach tailored to the individual needs of the municipality.
The first key to success – partnerships and collaboration – includes several options:
Ensure buy-in to diversion programs through multi-stakeholder collaboration.
Adopt a regional waste management program that serves multiple small, rural or remote communities.
Establish partnerships with the private sector.
Take advantage of supportive provincial/territorial legislation to drive change.
8. Keys to success The second key to success – convenient options – includes the following options:
Provide convenient curbside recycling collection.
Offer easy options to divert leaf and yard waste.
Provide a household organics collection program.
Offer collection services to multi-family buildings.
Offer collection services to the institutional, commercial and industrial sectors.
Build facilities that process recyclables, organics or multiple streams of waste.
The second key to success – convenient options – includes the following options:
Provide convenient curbside recycling collection.
Offer easy options to divert leaf and yard waste.
Provide a household organics collection program.
Offer collection services to multi-family buildings.
Offer collection services to the institutional, commercial and industrial sectors.
Build facilities that process recyclables, organics or multiple streams of waste.
9. Keys to success The third key to success – policy and legislation – includes the following options:
Limit the amount of waste that can be set out per week.
Reduce garbage collection to biweekly.
Adopt policies such as landfill bans on recyclable and compostable materials.
Enforce all policies related to waste diversion.
Adopt a Zero Waste policy.
Create economic incentives to encourage diversion rather than disposal.
Adopt a Pay-as-you-Throw program. The third key to success – policy and legislation – includes the following options:
Limit the amount of waste that can be set out per week.
Reduce garbage collection to biweekly.
Adopt policies such as landfill bans on recyclable and compostable materials.
Enforce all policies related to waste diversion.
Adopt a Zero Waste policy.
Create economic incentives to encourage diversion rather than disposal.
Adopt a Pay-as-you-Throw program.
10. Keys to success The fourth key to success – education and promotion – includes the following options:
Build political will to bring about a change in waste management practices.
Develop significant and ongoing public education and promotion programs and launch them at the early stages of the waste diversion program.
Encourage backyard composting.
Provide constant feedback to residents to ensure that they understand the diversion services and options available and the impacts of their choices.
Report back on diversion achievements. The fourth key to success – education and promotion – includes the following options:
Build political will to bring about a change in waste management practices.
Develop significant and ongoing public education and promotion programs and launch them at the early stages of the waste diversion program.
Encourage backyard composting.
Provide constant feedback to residents to ensure that they understand the diversion services and options available and the impacts of their choices.
Report back on diversion achievements.
11. Regional District of Nanaimo, British Columbia
Population: 146,000
Diversion rate achieved: 64%
Highlights and Results
Over 4,170 tonnes of organic waste diverted in 2006
More than 11,000 tonnes of commercial food waste diverted since 2005
Successful landfill ban and enforcement
Fewer violation notices issued
Collaboration with industry and community stakeholders
Municipal Success Stories The Regional District of Nanaimo was able to achieve a 64 per cent waste diversion rate using the following measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Commercial food waste diversion program: Landfill ban on commercial food waste
Provincial support: Licensing authority for regional district governments to manage private waste management facilities
Convenient options
Curbside recycling collection: Biweekly three-stream recycling service for all residents
Household organics collection: A successful pilot program, leading to a permanent residential food waste organics collection program
Policy and legislation
Disposal bans on recyclables: Bylaw prohibits the disposal of designated recyclable materials at RDN disposal facilities
Commercial food waste disposal ban: Bylaw imposes a landfill ban on all food and organic waste from commercial and institutional sources
Limits on waste disposal: Residents allowed one can of garbage at the curb for weekly collection, with a $2 charge for each additional can
Waste Stream Management Licensing Bylaw: A regulatory framework for all waste management facilities
Zero Waste community: RDN became a Zero Waste community in 2002, it’s goal to diverting 75 per cent of waste from the landfill by 2010
Education and promotion
Promotion of yard waste reduction: RND promotes grasscycling (leaving grass clippings on lawns) and xeriscaping (landscaping that reduces the need for irrigation) to reduce water use, as well as backyard composting
Education programs: A compost education program; a school education program; a Zero Waste promotion and education program; and information distribution to multi-family properties, and businesses and institutionsThe Regional District of Nanaimo was able to achieve a 64 per cent waste diversion rate using the following measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Commercial food waste diversion program: Landfill ban on commercial food waste
Provincial support: Licensing authority for regional district governments to manage private waste management facilities
Convenient options
Curbside recycling collection: Biweekly three-stream recycling service for all residents
Household organics collection: A successful pilot program, leading to a permanent residential food waste organics collection program
Policy and legislation
Disposal bans on recyclables: Bylaw prohibits the disposal of designated recyclable materials at RDN disposal facilities
Commercial food waste disposal ban: Bylaw imposes a landfill ban on all food and organic waste from commercial and institutional sources
Limits on waste disposal: Residents allowed one can of garbage at the curb for weekly collection, with a $2 charge for each additional can
Waste Stream Management Licensing Bylaw: A regulatory framework for all waste management facilities
Zero Waste community: RDN became a Zero Waste community in 2002, it’s goal to diverting 75 per cent of waste from the landfill by 2010
Education and promotion
Promotion of yard waste reduction: RND promotes grasscycling (leaving grass clippings on lawns) and xeriscaping (landscaping that reduces the need for irrigation) to reduce water use, as well as backyard composting
Education programs: A compost education program; a school education program; a Zero Waste promotion and education program; and information distribution to multi-family properties, and businesses and institutions
12. Town of Olds, Alberta
Population: 7,300
Diversion rate achieved: 43%
Highlights and Results
High waste diversion results without a curbside recycling program
Successful partnerships with the education sector and other local communities
A supportive population engaged at the grassroots level
A Strategic Sustainability Plan created through an intensive public engagement process Municipal Success Stories The Town of Olds was able to achieve a 43 per cent waste diversion rate using the following measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Partnership with the education sector: Partnership with Olds College to divert the town’s organic waste stream to the college’s Composting Technology Centre
Partnerships and collaboration with other communities: Mountain View Regional Waste Management Commission provides waste collection services for multiple communities
Multi-stakeholder community collaboration: Strategic Sustainability Plan created through an intensive public engagement process
Convenient options
Curbside organics collection: Residential organics collection – biweekly during the summer and monthly in the winter
Recycling depots: Three recycling depots divert 12 materials
Garden, grass and leaf waste depots: 52 three-cubic-yard dumpsters for garden, grass and leaf waste
Policy and legislation
Reduced garbage collection: Biweekly garbage collection and an informal bag limit policy
Waste management fees: An $18.87 charge on the monthly utilities bill and a rental fee for an additional garbage or organics bin
Rejection of mixed-waste garbage: Bylaw allows collection crews to reject garbage that contains recyclable and organic material
Controlled disposal of waste: Bylaw prohibits any burning of waste
Education and promotion
Education of residents: Excess garbage or highly contaminated organics bins are left behind with an explanation tag
Promotion of reuse: Reusable bags and grasscycling promoted through brochures and ads
C&D waste: Promotion of waste diversion in the construction and demolition and real estate sectors
Environmentally-Sustainable Yards (ESY) Project: A demonstration site showcasing yards and landscaping made from recycled materialsThe Town of Olds was able to achieve a 43 per cent waste diversion rate using the following measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Partnership with the education sector: Partnership with Olds College to divert the town’s organic waste stream to the college’s Composting Technology Centre
Partnerships and collaboration with other communities: Mountain View Regional Waste Management Commission provides waste collection services for multiple communities
Multi-stakeholder community collaboration: Strategic Sustainability Plan created through an intensive public engagement process
Convenient options
Curbside organics collection: Residential organics collection – biweekly during the summer and monthly in the winter
Recycling depots: Three recycling depots divert 12 materials
Garden, grass and leaf waste depots: 52 three-cubic-yard dumpsters for garden, grass and leaf waste
Policy and legislation
Reduced garbage collection: Biweekly garbage collection and an informal bag limit policy
Waste management fees: An $18.87 charge on the monthly utilities bill and a rental fee for an additional garbage or organics bin
Rejection of mixed-waste garbage: Bylaw allows collection crews to reject garbage that contains recyclable and organic material
Controlled disposal of waste: Bylaw prohibits any burning of waste
Education and promotion
Education of residents: Excess garbage or highly contaminated organics bins are left behind with an explanation tag
Promotion of reuse: Reusable bags and grasscycling promoted through brochures and ads
C&D waste: Promotion of waste diversion in the construction and demolition and real estate sectors
Environmentally-Sustainable Yards (ESY) Project: A demonstration site showcasing yards and landscaping made from recycled materials
13. Regional Authority of Carlton Trail (REACT) Waste Management District, Saskatchewan
Population: 25,047
Diversion rate achieved: 55%
Highlights and Results
A successful waste management partnership involving 48 municipalities covering 11,400 square kilometres
Used as a model for regional waste management throughout Saskatchewan
Closure of 30 landfills, saving thousands of dollars
Reduced disposal rates in residences and commercial and agricultural enterprises
Municipal Success Stories The Regional Authority of Carlton Trail (REACT) Waste Management District was able to achieve a 55 per cent waste diversion rate using the following measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Regional waste management partnership: Through REACT, 48 municipalities offer waste diversion options to rural and municipal communities across 11,400 square kilometres
Convenient options
Municipal and rural garbage collection options:
Curbside garbage collection to residents located in villages, hamlets and towns
Dumpster collection service available for rural residential services by subscription
Commercial and agricultural bin collection program: Dumpster rental and weekly, biweekly or monthly collection
Recycling centres: 28 recycling centres throughout the region – revenue from resale helps fund the program
Leaf and yard waste depots: Leaf and yard waste depots at all 17 transfer stations and two landfills
C&D waste drop off areas: Transfer stations include areas for metals, clean wood and shingles
Policy and legislation
Membership fees: REACT membership fee of $18 per capita annually (new members pay $29 per capita for the first four years)
Pay-as-you-Throw (PAYT) programs:
Residents place a $1.25 tag on every bag of garbage set out for collection
Commercial and agricultural establishments pay by volume of waste and frequency of collection
PAYT helps ensure full-cost recovery for the waste management system
Education and promotion
Backyard composting: Promotion of backyard composting
School and community promotion and education programs: Promotion of backyard composting in schools and community clubs; annual household hazardous waste day
The Regional Authority of Carlton Trail (REACT) Waste Management District was able to achieve a 55 per cent waste diversion rate using the following measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Regional waste management partnership: Through REACT, 48 municipalities offer waste diversion options to rural and municipal communities across 11,400 square kilometres
Convenient options
Municipal and rural garbage collection options:
Curbside garbage collection to residents located in villages, hamlets and towns
Dumpster collection service available for rural residential services by subscription
Commercial and agricultural bin collection program: Dumpster rental and weekly, biweekly or monthly collection
Recycling centres: 28 recycling centres throughout the region – revenue from resale helps fund the program
Leaf and yard waste depots: Leaf and yard waste depots at all 17 transfer stations and two landfills
C&D waste drop off areas: Transfer stations include areas for metals, clean wood and shingles
Policy and legislation
Membership fees: REACT membership fee of $18 per capita annually (new members pay $29 per capita for the first four years)
Pay-as-you-Throw (PAYT) programs:
Residents place a $1.25 tag on every bag of garbage set out for collection
Commercial and agricultural establishments pay by volume of waste and frequency of collection
PAYT helps ensure full-cost recovery for the waste management system
Education and promotion
Backyard composting: Promotion of backyard composting
School and community promotion and education programs: Promotion of backyard composting in schools and community clubs; annual household hazardous waste day
14. City of Hamilton, Ontario
Population: 518,200
Diversion rate achieved: 44%
Highlights and Results
Large increase (16–44%) in single- and multi-family residential sector diversion rates (2001 to 2008)
Active outreach, promotion and education program
Extended landfill lifespan
7% rise in the amount of recyclables collected
Reduced GHG landfill emissions by diverting organic waste
Reduced truck emissions by collecting organics along with garbage
Municipal Success Stories The City of Hamilton was able to achieve a 44 per cent waste diversion rate using the following measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Community-led waste management and diversion strategy: A 32-member public advisory committee developed recommendations for a long-term Solid Waste Management Master Plan
Convenient options
Curbside recycling: Weekly two-stream curbside recycling services with over 30 materials accepted
Household organics collection: Curbside organics collection for all single-family households
Leaf and yard waste collection: Leaf and yard waste collected in spring and fall
Service to the multi-family residential sector: Garbage and recycling collection for 90 per cent of multi-family facilities and organics collection for about 900 multi-residential buildings
Policy and legislation
Limits on waste disposal: Gradual progression toward a one-container limit for household garbage
Mandatory recycling: All residences must participate in the city’s recycling program and multi-family buildings must provide a recycling program for tenants
Municipal Solid Waste Management Master Plan
Education and promotion
Feedback and education for residents: Educational letter or visit for residences with more than one garbage container at the curb
Social marketing strategies: Student “Green Team” outreach initiative; Gold Box Reward and Recognition Program for households that reach 65 per cent waste diversion
Outreach to residents of multi-family buildings: Education and promotion of recycling among apartment owners and tenants The City of Hamilton was able to achieve a 44 per cent waste diversion rate using the following measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Community-led waste management and diversion strategy: A 32-member public advisory committee developed recommendations for a long-term Solid Waste Management Master Plan
Convenient options
Curbside recycling: Weekly two-stream curbside recycling services with over 30 materials accepted
Household organics collection: Curbside organics collection for all single-family households
Leaf and yard waste collection: Leaf and yard waste collected in spring and fall
Service to the multi-family residential sector: Garbage and recycling collection for 90 per cent of multi-family facilities and organics collection for about 900 multi-residential buildings
Policy and legislation
Limits on waste disposal: Gradual progression toward a one-container limit for household garbage
Mandatory recycling: All residences must participate in the city’s recycling program and multi-family buildings must provide a recycling program for tenants
Municipal Solid Waste Management Master Plan
Education and promotion
Feedback and education for residents: Educational letter or visit for residences with more than one garbage container at the curb
Social marketing strategies: Student “Green Team” outreach initiative; Gold Box Reward and Recognition Program for households that reach 65 per cent waste diversion
Outreach to residents of multi-family buildings: Education and promotion of recycling among apartment owners and tenants
15. City of Owen Sound, Ontario
Population: 21,800
Diversion rate achieved: 51%
Highlights and Results
High diversion rate without a curbside organics diversion program
Drop of 21% in the waste disposal rate with Pay-as-you-Throw program
First community in Ontario requiring all IC&I establishments to complete waste audits and implement recycling programs
Increase in waste diversion prompted move to bi-weekly garbage collection
Increase of 55% in recycling tonnage (2000 to 2005) with 94% of residents participating in the program
Municipal Success Stories The City of Owen Sound was able to achieve a 51 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Community consultation: Comprehensive waste management strategy created with community consultation and input
Convenient options
Curbside recycling: Over 30 items accepted, including Tupperware, metal pots and pans, cutlery, kitchen utensils. plastic containers and cardboard
Leaf and yard waste composting: Deposit of leaf and yard waste at city-operated outdoor windrow compost site
Additional recycling options: Local transfer station accepts polystyrene, electronic waste, large appliances, tires and scrap metal
Recycling service for multi-family buildings and the IC&I sector: Free weekly recycling services for all multi-family buildings, institutions and commercial establishments
Policy and legislation
Pay-as-you-Throw program: A $2 tag required for all bags of garbage set out at the curb
Limited waste disposal: Biweekly collection of a maximum of four bags of garbage per household
Mandatory recycling: Mandatory recycling with notification of residents when garbage bags containing recyclables are left at the curb
Landfill bans: Landfill bans on recyclable materials, used electronic waste, household hazardous waste, and leaf and yard waste
IC&I requirements: Institutional, commercial and industrial establishments and all businesses must submit waste audit reports and waste reduction plans, implement recycling programs and divert designated materials
Education and promotion
Organic waste reduction: Promotion of waste reduction and diversion programs including subsidized backyard composters and kitchen containers
Consumer awareness: Awareness programs on using reusable bags and containers and buying goods with less packaging
Goods exchange programs: Municipal “goods exchange days” where residents set out their reusable items at the curb for others The City of Owen Sound was able to achieve a 51 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Community consultation: Comprehensive waste management strategy created with community consultation and input
Convenient options
Curbside recycling: Over 30 items accepted, including Tupperware, metal pots and pans, cutlery, kitchen utensils. plastic containers and cardboard
Leaf and yard waste composting: Deposit of leaf and yard waste at city-operated outdoor windrow compost site
Additional recycling options: Local transfer station accepts polystyrene, electronic waste, large appliances, tires and scrap metal
Recycling service for multi-family buildings and the IC&I sector: Free weekly recycling services for all multi-family buildings, institutions and commercial establishments
Policy and legislation
Pay-as-you-Throw program: A $2 tag required for all bags of garbage set out at the curb
Limited waste disposal: Biweekly collection of a maximum of four bags of garbage per household
Mandatory recycling: Mandatory recycling with notification of residents when garbage bags containing recyclables are left at the curb
Landfill bans: Landfill bans on recyclable materials, used electronic waste, household hazardous waste, and leaf and yard waste
IC&I requirements: Institutional, commercial and industrial establishments and all businesses must submit waste audit reports and waste reduction plans, implement recycling programs and divert designated materials
Education and promotion
Organic waste reduction: Promotion of waste reduction and diversion programs including subsidized backyard composters and kitchen containers
Consumer awareness: Awareness programs on using reusable bags and containers and buying goods with less packaging
Goods exchange programs: Municipal “goods exchange days” where residents set out their reusable items at the curb for others
16. City of Victoriaville, Québec
Population: 41,316
Diversion rate achieved: 64%
Highlights and Results
Three-stream collection and processing system
Successful public-private waste management partnership involving 17 municipalities and a private sector company
In 2008, the annual household hazardous waste collection event (Journée Normand Maurice) diverted 23,519 kg of waste and saved $1,535 in landfill costs
Municipal Success Stories The City of Victoriaville was able to achieve a 64 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Public-private partnership: A waste management company set up through a 51–49 per cent partnership between 17 municipalities and a private-sector waste management company
Household hazardous waste event: Journée Normand Maurice (Normand Maurice Day) is an annual environmental awareness and household hazardous waste collection event
Convenient options
Three-stream waste management: A three-stream waste management system for all residential households (including multi-family buildings) and IC&I establishments (garbage, recyclables and organics)
Seasonal leaf and yard waste collection
Materials recycling facility (MRF): The first mechanized MRF in Québec (built in 1995)
Eco-centre depot: Privately run eco-centre for electronics, organics, metal and recyclable construction and demolition material
Education and promotion
Household hazardous waste event: The event is run in partnership with a youth training organization and educates youth and the public
Policy and legislation
Reduced garbage collection: Biweekly garbage collection
Optional household organics collection: 80 per cent participation rate
The City of Victoriaville was able to achieve a 64 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Public-private partnership: A waste management company set up through a 51–49 per cent partnership between 17 municipalities and a private-sector waste management company
Household hazardous waste event: Journée Normand Maurice (Normand Maurice Day) is an annual environmental awareness and household hazardous waste collection event
Convenient options
Three-stream waste management: A three-stream waste management system for all residential households (including multi-family buildings) and IC&I establishments (garbage, recyclables and organics)
Seasonal leaf and yard waste collection
Materials recycling facility (MRF): The first mechanized MRF in Québec (built in 1995)
Eco-centre depot: Privately run eco-centre for electronics, organics, metal and recyclable construction and demolition material
Education and promotion
Household hazardous waste event: The event is run in partnership with a youth training organization and educates youth and the public
Policy and legislation
Reduced garbage collection: Biweekly garbage collection
Optional household organics collection: 80 per cent participation rate
17. City of Sherbrooke, Québec
Population: 150,000
Diversion rate achieved: 54%
Highlights and Results
Three-stream automated collection system
Seasonal wood waste curbside collection program
Municipal recycling collection service for small institutions, retailers and industries — diverts an estimated 100 tonnes of recyclable material annually, with about 230 organizations participating
Municipal Success Stories The City of Sherbrooke was able to achieve a 54 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
AND
Education and promotion
Sustainable business directory: A directory of local businesses that offer organic, environmental or fair trade products and services or take back used products and packaging
Convenient options
Three-stream waste management: A privately operated three-stream waste management system for all residential households (garbage, recyclables and organics)
Service to multi-family buildings: Bins provided to apartment blocks with five units or more upon request
Service to small institutions, retailers and industries: Municipal collection services for institutions, retailers and industries too small to attract private recycling companies
Seasonal leaf and yard waste collection
Curbside wood waste collection and recycling
Recycling and hazardous waste depots: Two eco centres with depots for household hazardous waste, and a regional recycling depot for wood waste, metal waste, used textiles and clothing, yard waste, tires, concrete, brick, asphalt, renovation and construction materials and electronic waste
Policy and legislation
Reduced garbage collection: Biweekly garbage collection
Fee for garbage collection supplies: A $100 charge for maintenance and replacement of the garbage cart
The City of Sherbrooke was able to achieve a 54 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
AND
Education and promotion
Sustainable business directory: A directory of local businesses that offer organic, environmental or fair trade products and services or take back used products and packaging
Convenient options
Three-stream waste management: A privately operated three-stream waste management system for all residential households (garbage, recyclables and organics)
Service to multi-family buildings: Bins provided to apartment blocks with five units or more upon request
Service to small institutions, retailers and industries: Municipal collection services for institutions, retailers and industries too small to attract private recycling companies
Seasonal leaf and yard waste collection
Curbside wood waste collection and recycling
Recycling and hazardous waste depots: Two eco centres with depots for household hazardous waste, and a regional recycling depot for wood waste, metal waste, used textiles and clothing, yard waste, tires, concrete, brick, asphalt, renovation and construction materials and electronic waste
Policy and legislation
Reduced garbage collection: Biweekly garbage collection
Fee for garbage collection supplies: A $100 charge for maintenance and replacement of the garbage cart
18. Halifax Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia
Population: 382,000
Diversion rate achieved: 59%
Highlights and Results
Diversion rate includes all residential (single-family and multi-family), commercial and institutional solid waste
An estimated 65,000 tonnes of construction and demolition material diverted from disposal annually
About 125 new jobs created through waste diversion
High public involvement through consensus-based waste management and decision making
A $500,000 annual investment in education and promotion
Municipal Success Stories Halifax Regional Municipality was able to achieve a 59 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Multi-stakeholder waste management planning: Open public process to establish a new landfill and waste management strategy
Consensus-based public decision-making: A community-based planning process led by a citizen stakeholder committee of 300 led to an implementation plan, a goal of 60 per cent diversion and a state-of-the-art stabilized landfill
Convenient options
Mixed-waste processing facility:
Mechanical-biological treatment processing pulls out hazardous waste and recyclable materials
The remaining material is sent to an enclosed facility to be composted and stabilized, then placed in the landfill
Two-stream curbside recycling program: Biweekly collection of recyclable containers and fibres for single-family residents and some multi-family buildings
Curbside green bin organic program: Biweekly curbside organics collection, with weekly collection during the summer
Policy and legislation
Mandatory source separation: Bylaw requires all residents, businesses and institutional properties to separate garbage into two-stream recyclables (containers and fibres) and organics
Bylaws specific to the C&D industry: Construction and demolition licensing bylaw establishes minimum diversion targets for C&D materials
Reduced garbage collection: Biweekly garbage collection with a six-bag limit per household
Education and promotion
Education and outreach program: Educational meetings with property firms, building superintendents, tenants and waste collection contractors
Source reduction programs: Backyard composting and grasscycling programs and a consumer awareness campaign
Halifax Regional Municipality was able to achieve a 59 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Multi-stakeholder waste management planning: Open public process to establish a new landfill and waste management strategy
Consensus-based public decision-making: A community-based planning process led by a citizen stakeholder committee of 300 led to an implementation plan, a goal of 60 per cent diversion and a state-of-the-art stabilized landfill
Convenient options
Mixed-waste processing facility:
Mechanical-biological treatment processing pulls out hazardous waste and recyclable materials
The remaining material is sent to an enclosed facility to be composted and stabilized, then placed in the landfill
Two-stream curbside recycling program: Biweekly collection of recyclable containers and fibres for single-family residents and some multi-family buildings
Curbside green bin organic program: Biweekly curbside organics collection, with weekly collection during the summer
Policy and legislation
Mandatory source separation: Bylaw requires all residents, businesses and institutional properties to separate garbage into two-stream recyclables (containers and fibres) and organics
Bylaws specific to the C&D industry: Construction and demolition licensing bylaw establishes minimum diversion targets for C&D materials
Reduced garbage collection: Biweekly garbage collection with a six-bag limit per household
Education and promotion
Education and outreach program: Educational meetings with property firms, building superintendents, tenants and waste collection contractors
Source reduction programs: Backyard composting and grasscycling programs and a consumer awareness campaign
19. City of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Population: 32,200
Diversion rate achieved: 60%
Highlights and Results
Waste diversion rate includes single- and multi-family residential properties and most IC&I properties
Uniform collection of garbage, recyclables and organics throughout the province
Amount of material recycled doubled in PEI (from 7,161 tonnes in 2001 to 14,410 tonnes 2006) as a result of mandatory source-separation legislation and a clear-bag policy
Municipal Success Stories The City of Charlottetown was able to achieve a 60 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Provincial waste management system: All communities in PEI are part of the provincial Waste Watch program managed by Island Waste Management Corporation
Convenient options
Three-stream waste collection for all residents: Waste collected in three streams (garbage, recycling and organics) for all residents (including multi-family buildings)
Spring and fall clean-ups for residents: Clean-ups for leaf and yard waste, waste items and scrap metals
Household hazardous waste drop-off centres
Policy and legislation
Mandatory recycling and organics diversion for all residents and businesses: Non-participation is penalized through curbside rejections or surcharges at the disposal facilities
Business and IC&I requirements: IC&I sector is required to source separate and arrange their own waste diversion
Limited waste collection and clear-bag requirement: Biweekly collection of waste and limits on waste disposal
Fees for waste management services: Services are funded through a Waste Watch fee of $195 per year for full-time residents
Provincial ban on hazardous waste: Landfill bans on lead-acid batteries, alkaline and rechargeable batteries, cell phones, laser and inkjet cartridges, used tires, hazardous waste (including pharmaceuticals) and fluorescent light bulbs
Tipping fee program for businesses: Charges to businesses for disposal of source-separated waste, with a mixed-waste surcharge for waste that is not source-separated
Education and promotion
Feedback to residents: Information tags provided if there is a problem with a set-out and it is left behind
Multi-family buildings: Staff help owners of multi-family buildings set up waste diversion program
Promotion of reduction and reuse: Promotion of backyard composting, grasscycling and reuse
The City of Charlottetown was able to achieve a 60 per cent waste diversion rate using a number of measures in each of the four keys to success:
Partnerships and collaboration
Provincial waste management system: All communities in PEI are part of the provincial Waste Watch program managed by Island Waste Management Corporation
Convenient options
Three-stream waste collection for all residents: Waste collected in three streams (garbage, recycling and organics) for all residents (including multi-family buildings)
Spring and fall clean-ups for residents: Clean-ups for leaf and yard waste, waste items and scrap metals
Household hazardous waste drop-off centres
Policy and legislation
Mandatory recycling and organics diversion for all residents and businesses: Non-participation is penalized through curbside rejections or surcharges at the disposal facilities
Business and IC&I requirements: IC&I sector is required to source separate and arrange their own waste diversion
Limited waste collection and clear-bag requirement: Biweekly collection of waste and limits on waste disposal
Fees for waste management services: Services are funded through a Waste Watch fee of $195 per year for full-time residents
Provincial ban on hazardous waste: Landfill bans on lead-acid batteries, alkaline and rechargeable batteries, cell phones, laser and inkjet cartridges, used tires, hazardous waste (including pharmaceuticals) and fluorescent light bulbs
Tipping fee program for businesses: Charges to businesses for disposal of source-separated waste, with a mixed-waste surcharge for waste that is not source-separated
Education and promotion
Feedback to residents: Information tags provided if there is a problem with a set-out and it is left behind
Multi-family buildings: Staff help owners of multi-family buildings set up waste diversion program
Promotion of reduction and reuse: Promotion of backyard composting, grasscycling and reuse
20. Resources FCM’s Green Municipal Fund™ (GMF) offers a range of resources and services that specifically address the sustainable community development needs of municipal governments. The Fund provides financing and knowledge to support the development of communities that are more economically, environmentally and socially sustainable.
The Fund’s website (address shown here) offers a range of information, and is worth a visit. Among the resources you will see there is the document, Getting to 50% and Beyond: Waste Diversion Success Stories from Canadian Municipalities, on which this presentation is based. A list of additional resources on waste diversion is included at the end of that document. Another useful FCM document is Solid Waste as a Resource: Guide for Sustainable Communities. This document provides a detailed snapshot of integrated solid waste management information, policies and technologies, including a workbook to guide decision makers in designing a local system.
[Note to speaker: Identify any additional organizations in your community and what they can offer.]
FCM’s Green Municipal Fund™ (GMF) offers a range of resources and services that specifically address the sustainable community development needs of municipal governments. The Fund provides financing and knowledge to support the development of communities that are more economically, environmentally and socially sustainable.
The Fund’s website (address shown here) offers a range of information, and is worth a visit. Among the resources you will see there is the document, Getting to 50% and Beyond: Waste Diversion Success Stories from Canadian Municipalities, on which this presentation is based. A list of additional resources on waste diversion is included at the end of that document. Another useful FCM document is Solid Waste as a Resource: Guide for Sustainable Communities. This document provides a detailed snapshot of integrated solid waste management information, policies and technologies, including a workbook to guide decision makers in designing a local system.
[Note to speaker: Identify any additional organizations in your community and what they can offer.]
21. Increasing waste diversion in our community
Why is it important?
What successes have we enjoyed?
What challenges do we face?
How can we strengthen partnerships and collaboration?
What convenient options could we provide?
What policy and legislation is needed?
How can we educate and promote more effectively? The way ahead Notes to speaker:
Several questions are shown that may help to stimulate discussion among your audience. You may choose to ask them in succession, or may simply open the floor for comments and suggestions on whatever topic interests each person.
You may choose to reduce the number of questions or replace these with other questions that more directly correspond to the needs and issues of your community, and the interests of your audience.Notes to speaker:
Several questions are shown that may help to stimulate discussion among your audience. You may choose to ask them in succession, or may simply open the floor for comments and suggestions on whatever topic interests each person.
You may choose to reduce the number of questions or replace these with other questions that more directly correspond to the needs and issues of your community, and the interests of your audience.
