The 2015 draft document created by the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change outlining the Strategy for a Waste Free Ontario: Building The Circular Economy indicates that in 2013 the Ontario waste sector was responsible for 9 megatons of greenhouse gas emissions, and that 93% of these emissions came from solid waste disposal most of which was organic in nature.
Dr. Paul Connett in his book Zero Waste Solution (Chelsea Green Publishing 2013), maintains that composting is more important than recycling. He states that it has the capacity to replenish the soil, help fight erosion, reduce and sequester global warming gases, and save energy, and it can lead to more absorption of carbon dioxide from our air. He notes further, that many composting efforts contribute to job creation, and social inclusion.
Composting can and needs to occur at every level of the food chain! It is the healthy and more energy efficient, alternative to waste incineration.
The 2nd Zero Waste Ontario conference on June 15-16/2017 will involve crucial industries who have recognized this need, studied it as it relates to their industry, and are among leaders in effecting a significant change in the way they do business, and yet make money, in order to contribute significantly to the food circular economy.
Participants are from the Farming, Grocery, Restaurant businesses, and the Compost Council of Canada. They will speak to the state of the circular economy as it applies to their segment of this industry, noting its challenges and present and future solutions.
This conference is in support of the 2016 Waste Free Ontario Act which creates a blueprint, amongst other things, to increase waste diversion and recover valuable resources.
Presenters will address the present state of the industry and how it pertains to the Government’s Waste Free Act.
By: Doug Daley
