The City’s Long Term Waste Management Strategy provides a road map for the way waste will be managed in Toronto over the next 30-50 years.

Summary

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, 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.