Durham Regional Council has approved the 2022 to 2040 Long-term Waste Management Plan (Waste Plan) and first Action Plan (2022 to 2026).
The Waste Plan guides the region in developing innovative ways to use waste as a resource in a circular economy, while demonstrating leadership in sustainability and mitigating environmental impacts. It emphasizes using the 5Rs (rethink, reduce, reuse, recycle and recover) as the first steps in reducing waste generation. The plan also outlines working with producers and importers of products and packaging to implement Extended Producer Responsibility and adjust the region’s waste programs, as required. As Durham Region’s diverse population continues to grow, the Waste Plan also highlights the importance of delivering cost effective and accessible waste management services.
Action Plans will support the Waste Plan by setting smaller goals and milestones for the region to achieve while working towards long-term objectives. There will be a total of three action plans, each picking up where the last one left off; the timelines include short-term (2022 to 2026), mid-term (2027 to 2033) and long-term (2034 to 2040). Action plans, with measurable targets accompanying actions, will be reviewed, and updated as necessary to ensure they are aligned with corporate direction and associated legislation.
Durham developed its first Waste Plan in 1999, which covered the period of 2000-2020. Under the first Waste Plan, the Region expanded the Green Bin, Blue Box and Hazardous Waste programs; introduced electronics, textiles, and porcelain recycling; and developed the made-in-Durham waste disposal solution in the Durham York Energy Centre (DYEC). Through these programs, Durham has significantly increased its waste diversion rates.
“As our communities continue to grow, it’s important that the Region is supported by strong, responsive and sustainable services, and that is especially important for waste management services. Our Waste Plan and Action Plans will help us reduce the amount of waste we create, and manage the generated waste as a resource, balancing financial needs and environmental sustainability. We will build innovative systems in collaboration with our residents and stakeholders to achieve our waste goals and ensure a healthy, safe and happy community for all,” said Gioseph Anello, Director of Waste Management.