The future of Toronto's waste
The City and the Province are discussing new programs and laws that will dramatically affect Toronto's waste future.
Last week, the Province announced a Waste Reduction Strategy that will increase recycling and cut City costs by making companies responsible for the safe recycling or disposal of products they sell.
The Province is headed in the right direction, but the City is not.
Next Wednesday, City Councillors will talk about a long term waste strategy that focuses on expensive disposal options. At the same meeting, they'll discuss an inadequate plan to get Green Bins to all apartments and provide more recycling education to residents. Read more here.
Let your Councillor know that a long term waste plan needs to start with a long term diversion plan. Find your Councillor here.
Top 8 Toxic Chemicals in Toronto
New City data identifies local sources of pollution. Thanks to Canada’s only ‘Community Right to Know’ bylaw, companies have to report toxic releases to Toronto Public Health.
The 2013 ChemTRAC report identified 8 chemicals in Toronto’s air that are a health priority in 2013: 3 chemicals that contribute to smog and respiratory illnesses, and 5 chemicals that are carcinogens and heavy metals.
One of the notable chemicals is Tetrachloroethylene, a carcinogen widely used by dry cleaning businesses in neighbourhoods across Toronto.
Learn more on our website about the ChemTRAC report findings and how to exercise your ‘right to know’ about toxic substances in your community.
This month in TEA history
