City boosts scrap metal diversion from Trail Waste Facility

As a result of staff initiative, the City’s Solid Waste Operations Branch almost tripled scrap-metal diversion from the Trail Waste Facility in 2009 when compared to 2008.
In 2007, 452 tonnes of metal, that otherwise would have been disposed of in the landfill, were recovered and sold to recyclers generating revenue of $23,157. However, in 2008 the tonnage dropped to 222 with revenue of $11,369.
Knowing the potential for recovering more scrap metal and the importance of preserving capacity in the City’s residential waste landfill, in 2009, the Solid Waste Operations Branch reviewed the program, made adjustments, and set aggressive targets for recovery.
The new program was implemented within existing staffing levels and budgets, and it succeeded. In 2009, 600 tonnes of scrap metal was recovered from the residential waste stream and diverted from the landfill generating revenue of $60,000 for the City.
“This is the kind of initiative we like to see from City employees,” said Ottawa Mayor Larry O’Brien. “They saw an opportunity to save both taxpayers' money and landfill space at the same time, and they capitalized on that opportunity.”
The 2009 scrap-metal recovery rate was roughly 270 per cent higher than that of 2008, and Solid Waste staff is looking to do even better in 2010.
“This is a good example of how City staff are examining and adjusting all programs with the goal of making them more sustainable,” said Alta Vista Councillor Peter Hume. “We all have a role to play when it comes to doing the right thing for the environment, and the City is making progress.”
The City continues to encourage residents to bring their scrap metal to local Take it Back! retailers. A list of retailers can be found at ottawa.ca/takeitback or by calling 3-1-1.

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