WHEREAS, a large number of rural and urban municipalities have been proactive in recycling recyclables in the province; and

WHEREAS, most municipalities operate a solid waste collection and disposal service as well as a recycle program; and

WHEREAS, since the cost of transporting the recycled material to a multi-material recycling facility far exceeds the salvage value received for the materials; and

WHEREAS, the Permit to Operate a Sanitary Landfill contains regulations that, because of the cost, cause a number of municipalities to consider discontinuing their recycle program in order to economically sustain a solid waste collection and disposal service; and

WHEREAS, the Ministry of Environment has in the past provided some funding to assist with recycling programs;

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ministry of Environment be asked to provide all municipalities with funding for a long term program for effective recycling in order to continue to provide the people of our province with a proven method of reducing waste at our landfills. 

Response from Honourable Nancy Heppner, Minister of Environment:

The Government of Saskatchewan is aware of the current problems associated with the cost of recycling and the increased financial pressure related to the drop in prices for cardboard and paper.  Developing improved recycling options for the province is a high priority for the Ministry of Environment.

The Government of Saskatchewan is sensitive to the financial concerns of municipalities engaging in recycling activities.  At this time, however, there is no funding to address the depressed markets for recycled materials.  The ministry intends to move as quickly as possible towards completing its evaluation of a multi-material recycling program that will meet the needs of the people of Saskatchewan.  Please be assured that municipalities will be considered if any future funding opportunities for recycling initiatives are established.