We need deposit return for ALL beverage containers in Ontario
THE PROBLEM
Ontario is one of only two provinces in Canada without a deposit-return system for non-alcoholic beverage containers, and as a result, it has the worst beverage container recycling rate in the country. In 2023, the province began exploring the implementation of a comprehensive deposit-return system in Ontario. But it has yet to confirm its plan to deal with this source of plastic waste and pervasive litter. In the meantime, an estimated 1.7 billion plastic drink bottles have ended up in landfills, incinerators, and the environment.
THE SOLUTION
The Ontario government must expand the deposit-return system beyond just alcoholic beverages. It's a proven, common-sense policy solution. Polling shows that, regardless of where they live or their political affiliation, Ontarians want a deposit-return system for all beverage containers. We need Ontario to act now. There is no time to waste.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Send a letter right now to environment minister, Andrea Khanjin, so she gets the message that she must finish the job of introducing a deposit-return system for non-alcoholic beverage containers. Deposit return is essential to reducing plastic pollution in Ontario.
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