Whistler is not on track to meet its target of reducing landfill waste by 80% by 2030 (from 2019 levels). The tools exist, and the plan is in place. What we need now is bold leadership and community pressure to make it happen.
Why Whistler’s Zero Waste Action Plan Matters
11,577 tonnes were generated last year, a far cry from the 2,368-tonne goal.
Please join us in encouraging bold leadership from the council on the matter of zero waste
Here are just a few reasons why:
- Protects Climate & Nature
Reducing landfill waste directly cuts greenhouse gas emissions like methane, helping combat climate change and preserve Whistler’s natural environment. - Supports a Circular Local Economy
The plan prioritizes reuse, repair, and recycling – keeping valuable materials in use and creating local green jobs while reducing dependency on landfills. - Builds Community Resilience
By reducing waste and improving systems, we strengthen Whistler’s ability to manage resources sustainably and adapt to global supply chain disruptions. - Delivers on Existing Commitments
These are not new goals. They were set in 2013 and reaffirmed in the 2021–2026 plan. It’s time for Council to fully implement them and meet the community’s long-standing expectations. - Empowers Everyone to Take Action
The plan makes it easier for residents, businesses, and visitors to reduce waste, sort materials properly, and make choices that align with Whistler’s sustainability values.
Useful Info From RMOW
What You Can Do
- Send a letter of support to RMOW Council. Sign and send the pre-written email below or copy and email a draft to: ac.reltsihw@etaroproc
- Join us at the Council Meetings on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. at Maury Young Arts Centre (4335 Blackcomb Way). The schedule of meetings can be found here. Your presence shows Council how much this matters to the community.
Expand to Read the Full Email Content
Dear Mayor & Council,
Re: Support for Zero Waste Action Plan Implementation
As a resident who cares deeply about the environmental health and long-term sustainability of the Whistler community, I am writing to congratulate the RMOW Council on adopting the Solid Waste Bylaw presented to Council on June 10th. I support the steps RMOW staff are taking to implement the Zero Waste Action Plan (ZWAP) and commend their commitment and ongoing work.
I am especially supportive of the bylaw changes that:
- Improve options for addressing non-compliance in multifamily housing;
- Clarify banned materials to support proper sorting;
- Introduce revised wood waste definitions and a reuse pilot initiative;
- Require solid waste management plans for certain permits.
However, as highlighted by RMOW staff during the June 10th Council meeting, Whistler is not on track to meet its target of reducing landfill waste by 80% by 2030 (from 2019 levels), with 11,577 tonnes generated last year, a far cry from the 2,368-tonne goal. The update made it clear that no new technology is needed; rather, we must shift how we manage waste and engage the community to drive meaningful change.
It is important to note that these zero waste targets are not ambitious new goals. They were first set in the 2013 Zero Waste Plan and reaffirmed in the 2021–2026 Zero Waste Action Plan. These were realistic targets with an achievable timeline, and Council has failed to invest adequately in meeting them.
This is where bold leadership from the Council is essential. We need you to continue empowering staff, supporting the Zero Waste Working Group, and pushing forward solutions that make it easier to do the right thing, and harder to do the wrong thing. These targets are critical for measuring progress and driving meaningful action. Falling short should inspire renewed effort, not reduced ambition.
To accelerate progress toward our zero waste goals, I urge Council to consider the following recommendations:
- Introduce hauler licensing and data reporting for greater oversight;
- Require clear bags for landfill-bound waste to encourage source separation;
- Expand local recycling options for items like asphalt shingles, furniture, and hazardous waste;
- Implement “Pay As You Throw” systems to create financial incentives for waste reduction;
- Provide free tire drop-off at the transfer station;
- Extend solid waste management plan requirements to all new builds, major renovations, and rezoning applications;
- Align mixed waste contamination limits with Squamish’s 5% threshold.
Effective waste management is essential for meeting climate targets because it reduces potent greenhouse gas emissions, conserves resources, and supports low-carbon, circular communities that are key to a sustainable future. The Zero Waste Action Plan provides a realistic and community-driven roadmap to reducing waste and building local resilience. It deserves full implementation.
I appreciate your ongoing leadership and look forward to seeing Whistler continue to move toward its sustainability goals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Number of submissions: 27
