EBR posting - Revised Compost Framework

November 24, 2009

Dear Sir or Madame:

The Ministry of the Environment(MOE) is seeking comments on a revised compost framework intended to provideimproved guidance for compost operators as well as a wider range of compostingopportunities. 

The proposed new compost frameworkconsists of the following components:

• A new compost Guideline – the Draft Guideline for Composting Facilities and Compost Use in Ontario – which includes the most up-to-date best management practices and guidance for compost facilities, municipal waste managers and ministry staff.  Updated guidance on facility siting, design, equipment use and operating procedures, including feedstock control and odour prevention, would help improve overall facility operation, including odour control, as well as strengthen the government’s protection of the environment by applying consistent requirements and expectations for all compost facilities.

• Establishment of additional compost categories (AA, A, and B) to support the composting of a broader range of materials (such as septage, sewage biosolids and pulp and paper mill biosolids) in a manner that is protective of the environment and human health.  The proposed compost Guideline sets out quality standards (metals, pathogens, maturity, and foreign matter) for each category of compost, as well as restrictions for the use of each category commensurate with the quality of the product and the risks associated with its application, to ensure protection of the environment and human health.

• Amendments to Regulation 347 under the Environmental Protection Act to give legal effect to the new compost standards and application restrictions set out in the proposed compost Guideline.

• Amendments to the General Nutrient Management Regulation (O. Reg. 267/03) under the Nutrient Management Act, 2002 to ensure consistency with the proposed compost framework.

Further details of this proposal, as well as links to the proposedCompost Guideline and regulatory amendments, can be found on the EnvironmentalBill of Rights registry at  http://www.ebr.gov.on.ca/ERS-WEB-External/displaynoticecontent.do?noticeId=MTA2NTgz&statusId=MTU5OTIw&language=en (EBR Registry # 010-6658). Comments must be submitted in writing with reference to the EBR # 010-6658 and received prior to January 23,2010.

In addition to theposting, MOE is hosting three consultation sessions to review the proposedcompost framework, provide an opportunity for discussion, and receive yourfeedback. The meetings will be held at:

If you would like toattend one of these meetings, please RSVP at least 2 business days prior to themeeting with your preferred meeting location to Brad Guglietti at (416)314-9404 or brad.guglietti@ontario.ca.  You may also contact BradGuglietti for further information on these topics.

Your involvement and input is appreciated as wecontinue working towards the government’s commitment to the protection ofpublic health and the environment without placing undue burden on businessesand municipalities.

I look forward to receiving your comments.

Sincerely,

John Vidan                                        

Director

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Posted on November 24th