From red tape to green waste

REGINA — Municipalities and private companies now have more flexibility when establishing compost facilities under a new Compost Facility Chapter of the Saskatchewan Environmental Code.

This chapter will help increase composting efficiency in the province by reducing the administrative burden for smaller facilities, according to Saskatchewan Enviroment.

"We want to make it easier for municipalities to compost their waste," Environment Minister Travis Keisig said. "This change strikes a balance between environmental protection and practicality, benefitting both communities and the environment." 

Currently, compost facilities are regulated through landfill permits. With the new chapter, owners will not need to apply for permits. Facilities have two options: 

• Standard method: Provides specific instructions for siting, constructing and closing the facility. This method does not require approval.
• Alternative solution: Offers more flexibility in the siting and design of compost facilities while ensuring environmental protection. It requires an approved environmental protection plan.

Higher-risk facilities handling more than 15,000 tonnes of organic material annually, such as Regina and Saskatoon, will be required to follow the alternative solution. This approach ensures the ministry is engaged in the project while still allowing flexibility and innovation.

Smaller facilities like community gardens or residential backyard composting are not regulated under the chapter. 

Municipalities and private companies must follow the chapter's requirements and notify the ministry of activities like construction and closures. The Ministry of Environment will continue to inspect compost facilities and review environmental monitoring reports to ensure compliance. 

Existing facilities are exempt from certain siting, design and construction requirements unless they undergo expansion.

For more information about composting facilities and the new chapter, please visit Composting Facilities | Solid Waste Management Facilities | Government of Saskatchewan.

For more information about composting at home, in your community or industrially, visit Compost | Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council (saskwastereduction.ca).