Inspired by the amazing zero waste success story of 430 Mayfair on the Green, Mayor Tory and Toronto's Solid Waste department just launched the Towering Challenge, a friendly challenge to all other multi-residential buildings in Toronto to get creative to reduce waste.

Apartments, condos and co-ops generally have very low recycling and composting rates - due in part to poor access to diversion programs. However, great examples from right here in Toronto are proving that high diversion is possible, and it has many benefits.

The Towering Challenge will run through the fall and winter. Interested building superintendents, property managers and building owners can register for the friendly competition and get their buildings on the path to zero waste. 

The Challenge website includes simple check lists, guides and inspirational examples to help other buildings cut waste. Buildings that show improvement, use creative approaches and tackle waste will be recognized in Spring 2017.

TEA will be one of the groups on the judging panel, alongside the Recycling Council of Ontario, the University of Toronto, City of Toronto Tower & Neighbourhood Revitalization project and The Greater Toronto Apartment Association.

If you live in an apartment, co-op or condo and want to see your building join the competition, check out the criteria on the City of Toronto’s website: Mayor’s Towering Challenge

We’d also love to hear from you - let us know if you sign up for the Towering Challenge or want to reduce waste in your building!

We support this competition as a good starting point - the challenge will uncover and spotlight more zero waste solutions, and identify what resources are needed to help buildings cut waste. However, to ensure that all buildings are doing their part, Toronto needs new waste regulations.