Alberta cracking down on illegal dumping
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Alberta (Rural Roots Canada) – The Alberta government plans to introduce legislation cracking down on illegal dumping in the province.
The proposed amendments to the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act would see offenders hit with significant fines between $10,000 and $100,000. Courts would also be able to impose jail time, from a minimum of 30 days to a maximum of six months.
“Albertans work hard to keep their communities, farms and public lands clean,” said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith in a statement. “Illegal dumping damages our environment, violates private property and leaves Albertans paying for someone else’s mess. Waste must be disposed of responsibly. We’re cracking down so those who choose to break the law face tougher penalties and serious consequences.”
Illegal dumping is an ongoing concern across Alberta, with garbage and construction debris tossed along roadsides, on farmland, private property and public lands. Taxpayers, landowners and communities are often on the hook for clean-up costs and environmental damage.
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The province also plans to increase oversight at large waste facilities. The proposed changes would require higher-risk facilities handling larger volumes of waste or storing it for longer periods to obtain provincial registration and meet additional operating requirements.
Lower-risk facilities would continue under the existing streamlined notification process.
“Illegal dumping is not a victimless act,” said Mickey Amery, Alberta’s Minister of Justice. “These proposed changes will make Alberta’s penalties the most severe in the country and send a clear message that those who break the law should bear the costs of their actions.”
If you see illegal dumping or find suspicious waste on your property, you can report it through Alberta’s 24-hour environmental response line at 1-800-222-6514, or through your local municipality.
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