Manitoba looks to keep waste out of landfills
By Adam Freill
Construction Construction Materials Demolition Green ConstructionProvincial government launches task force to explore construction, renovation and demolition waste diversion.
PHOTO: Adobe Stock/Pingpao
Manitoba wants to find new ways to divert waste materials from landfills, and is creating a task force to dig into the subject. The Manitoba government, Winnipeg Metropolitan Region, and the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association recently launched a new Construction, Renovation and Demolition Task Force, which aims to have a report ready with recommendations by the fall.
“Construction, renovation and demolition waste is a major contributor to our landfills, so by diverting these materials through reuse and recycling, we help address the problem while protecting our environment,” said the province’s Environment and Climate Minister Kevin Klein. “Diverting these materials from the waste stream leads to the better preservation of finite natural resources and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, in addition to generating new economic opportunities.”
In 2021, the Manitoba government’s Waste Diversion and Recycling Framework Review identified that construction, renovation and demolition products were the second-largest waste stream in Manitoba, representing an estimated 20 to 30 per cent of total waste.
“The construction industry has been recycling select materials from road or other projects, but there are numerous materials that could be recovered and reused from broader construction activities to promote resource management and environmental stewardship,” said Chris Lorenc, president and CEO of the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association.
The benefits also align with the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region’s draft Plan 20-50, which will establish a regional approach supporting waste minimization, diversion and recycling.
“Building resiliency in our region is a key objective in Plan 20-50,” said Colleen Sklar, executive director of the region. “This starts with improved data sharing and good working relationships across all levels of government, which ensure sound decision-making and an environment of trust.”
The new Construction, Renovation and Demolition Task Force, which will also include participation from the City of Winnipeg, Association of Manitoba Municipalities, Winnipeg Construction Association and the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association, will submit a report with recommendations to the Manitoba government in the fall.
