New government mandates proposed that municipalities divert waste from landfill up to 60 percent in the next 3 years. This is part of Ontario’s goal to become a waste-free province, and emit zero greenhouse gasses.
With London’s landfill being expected to reach capacity in 9 years, green initiatives set forth by the government would help lengthen the lifespan of it.
Councillor Anna Hopkins of Ward 9, has always been keen on one particular green movement to help reach the provincial government’s restrictions.
“We need to divert… We have to get these landfills to last longer. And how are we going to do it? Composting is an obvious way to do that.”
London has previous practiced the green-bin program. The city conducted a pilot project where volunteers adopted the program. It was met with success from those who participated, and continued the conversation on the city taking steps for a “greener” future.
Former councillor Gord Hume was on city council for 4 terms. Hume says that it’s up to sitting council to make the decision to implement the composting program.
“The council so far, has not shown the courage to do that. The money is available if they want it. They just haven’t shown the desire to do it.”
With a an election coming up in the next year, green talks will be a conversation to keep an ear out for.