Canada was recently ranked 17th out of 17 countries for municipal waste generation. Our country is also part of the problem of waste exports.
How can we strengthen our global reputation as environmental leaders?
Here’s are some of the ways Canadians can learn from the top waste management services.
Importance of Waste Management
In Canada, the municipal government is responsible for waste collection and disposal. Waste management reduces the effect of waste on the environment and the health of our planet and communities. It educates people and businesses on using the 5 Rs: reduce, reuse, repair, rot, recycle.
Canada’s Top Waste Management Services
When you think of waste, you likely think about the trash bag in your kitchen and the bottles in your recycling bin. However, there are many other forms of waste we produce, including :
- Organic waste
- Medical and clinical waste
- Electrical waste
- Construction debris
- Hazardous materials
Waste-to-Energy Management Services
In February 2022, the Canadian Government announced they would invest $2.6 million in waste-to-energy company Sustane Technologies. There are approximately six WTE facilities in Canada and about 1,000 in the United States that are paving the way for sustainability.
These companies incinerate waste to convert it into thermal energy, transformed into electrical power. With the soaring electricity costs in Canada, especially in Toronto, having a new energy source is game-changing.
What Can You Learn from Waste Management Services?
There are over 2400 active landfills in Canada, with its largest dump in Toronto, north of Vaughan. Our options for waste disposal are slowly getting fewer, and our perception of recycling is a little hazy. As landfills get fuller and other countries close their doors to our waste, it’s clear we need to make a change.
- Reduce and Reuse
Waste in landfills comes from all different sources, not just residential homes. However, you can reduce and reuse the amount that comes from average Canadians by shopping consciously. When you go grocery shopping, consider the packaging of the items you buy. You likely know about reusable grocery bags and bulk bags to transfer your food in.
- Compost Your Organics
Waste management in Toronto is touted as one of the best in the country. It has done an excellent job of introducing the green bin system. We have an easy and convenient solution to organic waste: put it in the bin, and our public waste management service comes to pick it up weekly. As for the rest of us, keep a list of compostable items in your kitchen. Many local municipalities offer a downloadable sheet you can keep handy.
- Recycle and Support Businesses That Recycle
Consumers hold all the power regarding businesses’ ethics and practices.
One of the things you can consider before you buy is if the company recycles and composts their waste. Do they offer eco-friendly products? Do they opt for digital receipts instead of paper? Are they investing in community environmental initiatives?
These may be small factors, but combined, they create a company that’s passionate about the planet’s future.
Take Action on Waste Management
If you’re a business owner, consider the different ways you can reduce your waste.
Should you hire a private waste removal company to handle your excessive amount of waste? Or, could you do some of the recycling onsite?
Many companies and commercial buildings are opting to recycle their materials in-house instead of waiting for weekly pickup.
You can also purchase a baler and sometimes even a sorting machine to do this. Not only does this reduce the waste you need to be picked up because it’s more compact, but it can also save your business money.
Plus, customers will be happy to hear you’re taking steps to be more environmentally friendly.