Media Release: VBOT applauds Provincial review of solid wast management plan

Friday, October 17, 2014

VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Vancouver Board of Trade applauds today's announcement that the Province will formally review Metro Vancouver's solid waste management plan.

The announcement was made earlier this morning by B.C.'s Minister of Environment, Mary Polak, in response to a number of public concerns surrounding Metro Vancouver's proposed Bylaw 280 — including concerns from the business community about stifling competition and the potential doubling of garbage removal costs for businesses.

Today's announcement was of great significance for The Vancouver Board of Trade, which has been working on this file for several years on behalf of its 5,000 business Members. Moving forward, The Vancouver Board of Trade pledges to work alongside both the Ministry and Metro Vancouver as they navigate through the three-month review process and chart a path forward.

"This is a difficult decision for any Minister to make, but we believe it's a smart idea to hit the pause button, take a step back, and take a critical look at our region's overall solid waste plan," said Iain Black, President and CEO of The Vancouver Board of Trade.

"We look forward to working with our Members and Metro Vancouver on building an integrated solid waste management plan that will continue to increase diversion from landfill, maximize recycling rates, and harnesses the competitive power of the ‎private sector," he added.

Black said the region's business community is strongly in favour of increasing waste diversion, but believes the targets can be met through private-sector solutions, which would create jobs and contribute to the economy.

Iain Black is available for media interviews this afternoon. To arrange an interview, please contact Greg Hoekstra, Communications Manager, at 604-640-5450 or media@boardoftrade.com.

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About The Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, The Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada's leading business association, engaging members to positively impact public policy at all three levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through four unique Member programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events businesses in the country, providing a platform for national and international business and thought leaders to further enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.