Poll indicates Halton residents not opposed to energy from waste

A recent poll found that most Halton residents think technology that converts waste into energy will be successful.

The results from the Toronto Star/Decima Research poll say that 89 per cent of local citizens asked feel the energy-from-waste (EFW) concept is a winning one.

"Halton Region announced in the summer that we were exploring options for an energy-from-waste facility at the Halton Waste Management Site and this poll shows that Halton was once again forward-thinking in how we plan on managing our waste," said Halton Regional Chairman Joyce Savoline. "It is rewarding to know that we are investigating waste management solutions that our residents support."

During the poll, Decima researchers told respondents that, "One technology in the testing stage takes waste that would otherwise be sent to a landfill and uses very high heat to break it down, at the same time creating electricity that can be used for homes and businesses. The process is supposed to create no air emissions and produce only a non-toxic, glass-like substance that can be used in road building."

Residents were then asked if they think the technology "will prove successful and (is) a good way to reduce garbage and create electricity, or will prove a failure and create emissions that are harmful?"

While 89 per cent of Halton and York Region residents polled said they think the technology will be successful, the number jumped to 94 per cent in Durham and also in Peel, where there is currently an operating EFW facility.

Halton Region has approval under the Environmental Assessment Act to implement an EFW facility when it determines one is needed for managing its waste.

The approval is part of the original joint board decision that was the result of the extensive environmental assessment process for the Halton Waste Management Site approved in February 1989.

Currently, the Region is preparing a business case for the implementation of EFW technology. The study, which will be presented to regional council next spring, will include the preliminary environmental, health, air quality, transportation and financial assessments needed to start public consultation and make an informed decision on the options for such a facility.

Halton plans to have its EFW facility operational in 2009.

Residents can visit www.halton.ca/efw for more information on Halton's waste management strategy or call 905-825-6000.

As well, the public is invited to leave comments or information requests regarding EFW either by phone at 905-825-6000, ext. 7920 or e-mail at efw@halton.ca.