Ottawa has already implemented successful composting programs for residential buildings, demonstrating our community's dedication to reducing waste and promoting environmental stewardship. However, a significant amount of food waste from businesses, particularly from food service establishments and larger institutions such as retirement homes, continues to end up in landfills. This not only exacerbates the environmental impact but also wastes valuable organic resources that could be repurposed through composting.

Current Situation:

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately one-third of all food produced globally is wasted. In Canada, this amounts to over 35 million metric tons of food waste annually. A significant portion of this waste originates from businesses and institutions.

Food waste in landfills contributes to the production of methane, a greenhouse gas that is over 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. This accelerates climate change and poses severe environmental threats.

The financial cost of food waste in Canada is estimated to be around $49 billion annually. Businesses that do not manage food waste effectively face increased disposal costs and miss out on the potential benefits of composting.

Proposed Action:
We, the undersigned, urge the Ottawa City Council to enact regulations that mandate all food service businesses and large institutions, such as retirement homes and hospitals, to implement and maintain a comprehensive composting program. This will involve:

• Mandatory Compliance: Requiring businesses to separate organic waste from other trash and ensure its proper composting.
•  Accessible Compost Bins: Providing compost bins for customers to dispose of food waste and compostable items like cutlery, containers, cups, and bags, both in kitchens and throughout buildings to ensure easy access for food waste disposal.
• Infrastructure Support: Providing support and resources to businesses for the establishment of composting facilities or partnerships with local composting services.
• Education and Training: Offering educational programs and training for staff on effective composting practices and the importance of waste reduction.
• Monitoring and Enforcement: Establishing a monitoring system to ensure compliance and implementing penalties for non-compliance.

Benefits:

• Resource Recovery: Composting converts food waste into valuable compost, which can be used to enrich soil, support local agriculture, and enhance green spaces within the city.
• Economic Incentives: Businesses can reduce waste disposal costs and potentially benefit from the sale of compost or reduced purchasing of soil amendments.
• Environmental Preservation: Reducing food waste in landfills will significantly decrease methane emissions and contribute to Ottawa's climate action goals.
• Community Health: Promoting sustainable waste practices supports a healthier community by reducing pollution and promoting environmental stewardship.

In conclusion, Implementing mandatory composting programs is a crucial step towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible Ottawa. It aligns with our city's green initiatives and sets a precedent for other municipalities to follow. We call on the Ottawa City Council to take immediate action and support this vital initiative for the betterment of our community and the environment.

We believe that through collaborative efforts and strong regulatory frameworks, Ottawa can lead the way in sustainable waste management and significantly reduce the environmental footprint of our city. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.