January 28, 1998

To: Works and Utilities Committee

From: M.A. Price, Interim Functional Lead for Solid Waste Management

Subject: 1998 Environment Days

The purpose of this report is to provide background information and plans for the operation of Environment Days in 1998.

Funds have been requested for this program in the 1998 operating and capital budget submissions of the Works Department=s Metro Hall location. The total operating and capital costs are $540,000.00 and $100,000.00 respectively, including the cost of household hazardous waste management and disposal.

That this report be received for information.

Since the program=s inception in 1991, 227 Environment Days were hosted by Metro Councillors and coordinated by the Metro Works Department.

Similarly, many of the area municipalities held compost give-a-ways, and community, ravine and watercourse clean ups, hosted by the local councillors.

Environment Days, which take place in public places such as schools, parks and shopping malls, between April and October, allow residents to participate in a variety of environmental activities which are extensions of Works Department programs. The 1997 Environment Days were extremely successful with residents having the opportunity of locally: purchasing a composter, water saving kit, or blue box; picking up free leaf compost; diverting household hazardous waste, clothing, tires, books, polystyrene, tetra paks, polycoat cartons, plastic tubs and bags; and dropping off non-perishable food items. The 1997 Environment Days are summarized in the chart found below.

(Number of Events - 31)

In 1998, staff plan to continue to coordinate these environmental events by combining the experience of the Works Departments across the new city. Many of the local communities have organized area-wide clean up days, garage sales and other environmentally related activities. The Works Departments will organize Environment Days to coincide with local community environmental initiatives, whenever possible or feasible.

It is anticipated that the number of Environment Days held in 1998 will be greater than in past years due to increased interest by the public. Councillors will be receiving a letter from staff which will provide pertinent information on Environment Days to assist them in booking their event.

Environment Days have been very popular to date, allowing residents to participate in a number of environmental programs. Environment Days should continue to be held in 1998.

Carolyn McSkimming

Municipal Compost Coordinator (Metro Hall)

Telephone: (416) 392-5807

Fax: (416) 392-4754

E-mail:carolyn_mcskimming-pereira@metrodesk.metrotor.on.ca

Michael A. Price

Interim Functional Lead - Solid Waste Management

Barry H. Gutteridge

Acting Executive Commissioner