Item - 2023.IE9.6

The Infrastructure and Environment Committee:

1. Requested the Executive Director, Environment and Climate Division to further explore ways to support the public’s shift to low-emissions equipment, as part of the broader effort to develop a by-law banning the use of two-stroke equipment, and acknowledge that undertaking this work is conditional on allocating the required resources in the 2024 Budget, once it has been deemed adopted.

2. Requested the Executive Director, Environment and Climate Division to develop a Spring 2024 public awareness campaign aimed at promoting the benefits of zero-emissions landscape equipment and sustainable landscape practices that supports biodiversity and reduces yard waste.

City Council has expressed its support for a ban on the use of two-stroke small engine equipment in Toronto. City Council has requested staff to report back in 2023 on opportunities for support programs, such as a low-emission equipment lending library, and opportunities for partnerships to incent a transition to low-emission equipment.

This report provides an overview of equipment lending libraries within Toronto and other communities, while also outlining key considerations for implementing such services. It is important to note that Toronto Public Library (TPL) staff have indicated that a zero-emission equipment lending library is not a suitable fit for Toronto Public Library branches or services. However, the Toronto Tool Library, which currently operates a single downtown location, has expressed interest in engaging in further discussions regarding this concept.

Additionally, the report outlines partnership programs to incent residents to align with the City's goals, facilitating a transition towards more environmentally friendly practices.

As directed by City Council if adequate resources are allocated in the 2024 budget, staff will initiate the work for City Council to enact a by-law that imposes a ban on the use of two-stroke engine equipment. This will involve reporting to the Infrastructure and Environment Committee in 2024. Furthermore, this undertaking will include a more comprehensive examination of clean transition support programs and potential partnerships aimed at promoting compliance.