Although Alberta has led the way with many successful programs, a number of issues are driving the need to reassess our overall waste management strategies. Alberta’s population is increasing and our economy continues to be strong. As a result, the amount of waste going to landfill each year has increased.

Per capita waste disposal is remaining relatively constant despite initiatives to encourage waste reduction and recycling.

Landfill Alternatives
Finding sites for new landfills is a difficult, expensive, time-consuming process. The need for more landfills will increase unless the volume of waste entering Alberta landfills is reduced. Using existing sites as long as possible supports the sustainability of Alberta’s current landfill network.

While landfills will always have a place in waste management, it is now time to devote more energy to alternate approaches.

Increasing hazardous waste generation
Hazardous waste generation in Alberta has increased substantially over the past decade. The majority of hazardous waste generated in Alberta (approximately 70 per cent) is recycled.

Hazardous waste that is not recycled is disposed of through land disposal options, is treated at the Swan Hills Treatment Centre or shipped out of the province for treatment. Pollution prevention initiatives may provide further opportunities for hazardous waste reduction.