Region developing long-term waste management strategy

In preparation for the region to reach one million residents, work is underway to ensure the waste management system will be able to handle the added capacity.

The municipality is developing a long-term waste management strategy, and a key component in its creation is public input. In fact, public engagement is the first of three phases of the project.

Tracey Annette, senior waste management engineer, Engineering and Environmental Services, Region of Waterloo, told 570 NewsRadio there are some specific things the team would like to know from the public.

“What is your level of awareness with the current waste management programs you’re either receiving or not receiving? What are your struggles with the services, or what are some considerations we should take forward?”

Annette said it’s important that everyone gets a chance to share their thoughts on the waste programs and services so the new strategy can be as efficient and effective as possible.

She added there will continue to be a focus on diverting recyclable or reusable items from landfills, which has a potential economic impact.

“The region provides one part of a circular economy. We really want to explore relationships and opportunities to really foster a circular economy in our region,” she said.

Annette pointed out that the region is beginning this process with an advantage created through the foresight of past regional governments.

“We have the benefit of having roughly 25 years left in our one and only operating landfill. And, across the province we only have 15 years, on average, of approved capacity. So, we’ve been able the extend the life of our landfill so much, but we feel there is more that can be done and should be done.”

Two virtual public engagement Zoom sessions have been scheduled:

• Wednesday, May 14, 6 p.m. Register now
• Thursday, May 15, 1 p.m. Register now

An online survey is also now available.