Why the City Needs a Long Term Waste Management Strategy

Waste management in a city the size of Toronto is a complex task. Last year alone, the City managed approximately 900,000 tonnes of waste, which is not sustainable. With a growing population, the changing nature of waste and limited landfill space, a long-term strategy to guide waste management in Toronto is key.

A Road Map for the Future

The City’s Long Term Waste Management Strategy (Executive Summary, Full Report), also known as the Waste Strategy,  was approved by City Council in 2016 and provides a road map for the way waste will be managed in Toronto over the next 30-50 years.

It was developed over two years and is supported by extensive research, guidance from key stakeholders and a comprehensive public consultation and engagement program.

The Strategy focuses on:

  • waste reduction, reuse and recycling
  • activities that promote resource conservation and reduce environmental impact.

It also sets a goal of diverting 70 per cent of Toronto’s waste away from landfill by 2026 and supports the City’s move towards a circular economy and zero waste future.

Implementing the Strategy for a More Sustainable Tomorrow

Throughout 2017, the City was in the research and planning stages for many of the Strategy’s recommendations. Today, the City is delivering on a number of those recommendations through the implementation of various new programs and initiatives.

 

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