Item - 2022.IE30.17

The Infrastructure and Environment Committee:

1. Requested the the General Manager, Solid Waste Management Services to provide an update to the next Infrastructure and Environment Committee on the Single Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy status and timeline, including the steps to implement the Voluntary Measures Program to provide support for small businesses, and the steps to ensure the City is leading by example by shifting away from single-use in City operations and facilities.

In response to a growing plastic and waste crisis, Toronto has been developing a Single-Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy to reduce unnecessary single-use bags, cups, utensils and foodware since 2018. This received strong public support through multiple rounds of public consultation, and unanimous support from Council. 

In June 2021, Council unanimously directed staff to move ahead with Stage 1 of the Reduction Strategy, specifically, the implementation of a Voluntary Measures Program - including promotional tools, resources and recognition for businesses across Toronto to help them voluntarily take steps to reduce single-use items. This also included the City committing to lead by example in all city facilities.

This voluntary program was meant to start in the fall of 2021, with a report back in spring 2022. Unfortunately, the program has not launched, and the report has not come back to Council.

Toronto businesses - small and large - are ready to do their part and reduce waste, but need guidance and certainty from the City on how to do it. This year, the Federal government is moving ahead with regulations on some single-use plastic items, and Toronto businesses will need to adapt their business practices.

It is critical to move forward with the Single-Use and Takeaway Items - Voluntary Measures Program to provide Toronto businesses with guidance and support to help them reduce waste, and the City to lead by example in its own operations.