Waste Policy Framework
In Québec, the government adopted a framework EPR regulation that came into force on July 14, 2011.Province-Wide Diversion Programs include a mixed approach with some EPR, shared responsibility, and product stewardship.
Legislated EPR Programs:
- Electronics and cell phones
- Automotive – used oil, oil containers and/or filters, glycol
Voluntary programs
- HHSW – pesticides/fertilizers and containers
Shared Responsibility
- Packaging and Printed Paper (PPP)
- Packaging – milk containers
Product Stewardship Programs
- Packaging – beverage containers
- Automotive tires
Diversion Rates
All materials diverted |
2,404,481 |
White goods |
276,767 |
Electronics |
21,525 |
Plastics |
137,235 |
Tires |
75,541 |
Construction, renovation and demolition |
210,000 |
Other materials |
8,000 |
Energy Recovery from Waste Approach
There is one large EFW facility in QC, the Kativik. The Regional Government is planning on conducting a feasibility study for a small scale incinerator for the north. Quebec’s landfill and incineration regulation specifically includes technology designed for smaller EFW facilities. Criteria under development for EFW incinerators, pyrolysis chambers, gasifiers, plasma ovens, industrial ovens, and boilers.
Plastic Bans and Policies
Montreal
Montreal became the first major Canadian city to ban retailers from using single-use plastic bags on January 1st 2018. The bylaw targets the thin, single-use plastic bags usually used by grocery stores.
Sainte-Sophie
On November 5, 2019, the Sainte-Sophie municipal council adopted by-law 1283-2019 prohibiting the distribution of certain single-use bags throughout its territory.
- Material(s): Any shopping bag composed of conventional plastic or biodegradable, oxo-degradable or compostable plastic, regardless of their thickness, as well as paper bags.
- Regulation: RÈGLEMENT No. 1283-2019 – DISTRIBUTION DE SACS D’EMPLETTES DANS LES COMMERCES DE DÉTAIL-ADOPTION
- Date effective: Jan. 1, 2020
Val Saint-François
MRC du Val-Saint-François has adopted new regulations banning the distribution of plastic bags throughout its territory. Businesses in the region’s 18 municipalities will no longer be able to distribute or sell single-use plastic bags. Citizens will be invited to take part in the movement by bringing their reusable bags to shop in the various businesses in the region.
- Material(s): Any plastic packing bag or compostable packing bag
- Regulation: le bannissement des sacs de plastique à usage unique provenant du Règlement général uniformisé
- Date effective: Jan. 1, 2020