Tantramar Reducing Plastic Waste Associated with Municipal Meetings and Events (2025-22) — full text

This is the exact embedded text of the captured official document. Snapshot aa0818275c34 · verified 2026-06-07 · original document · archived snapshot · unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.

Policy 2025-22 Reducing Plastic Waste Associated with Municipal Meetings and Events Approved November 12, 2025 1. PURPOSE To reduce the use of single-use and disposable plastics in meetings and events, particularly those involving food and beverages. By promoting sustainable alternatives and responsible practices, the policy aims to minimize environmental impact and support broader organization goals related to waste reduction and climate action. 2. STATEMENT The Municipality of Tantramar hosts various public and internal meetings and events where food and beverages are provided. In alignment with the Government of Canada's Single-Use Plastics Prohibition Regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (1999), it is important that the Municipality is a leader in the promotion of eliminating single-use plastics and reducing waste overall. Limiting our use of single-use plastics is not only beneficial from an environmental and human health standpoint, it also reduces the impacts of climate change by limiting the amount of waste decomposing in landfills and being incinerated. 3. DEFINITIONS a) "Single-Use Plastic" means any plastic item designed to be used once and then discarded. Categories as defined under the Single-Use Plastic Regulations include checkout bags, cutlery, foodservice ware, ring carriers, stir sticks, and straws. b) "Foodservice Ware" means items designed for serving or transporting food or beverage that is ready to be consumed. Examples include containers, plates, lids, cutlery, and napkins. 4. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this policy are to achieve the following: a) Eliminate where possible the use of single-use plastic items and plastic waste within Municipal operations; b) Eliminate where possible the use of single-use plastic items and plastic waste at Municipal meetings and events; and c) Have the Municipality lead by example and increase awareness surrounding plastic pollution. 5. APPLICATION This policy applies to: a) All Council members and Municipal Employees, including Tantramar Fire Service at meetings and events; b) All Municipal facilities, operations and purchasing of goods; and c) Public events where the Municipality provides food and beverage services. TANTRAMAR POLICY NUMBER: 2025-22 Pages: 2 Administered by: Chief Administrative Officer Subject: Reducing Plastic Waste Associated with Municipal Meetings and Events Effective Date: November 12, 2025 Policy 2025-22 Reducing Plastic Waste Associated with Municipal Meetings and Events Approved November 12, 2025 6. EXEMPTIONS This policy does not apply: a) In the case of an emergency as defined in the Tantramar Municipal Emergency Response Plan. However, every effort shall be made to find reusable, recyclable or compostable alternatives where possible and feasible. 7. PROCEDURE a) Council members and Municipal employees shall use the washable foodservice ware provided by the Municipality, or bring their own to use; b) Internal Municipal meetings and events (on or off site) shall use washable and reusable foodservice ware. If not possible, the Municipality will make every effort to use vendors who provide recyclable or compostable options. c) For meetings and events hosted by the Municipality of Tantramar (on Municipally owned property or off site), organizers shall clearly communicate the Municipality's waste-reducing goals and encourage attendees to bring their own foodservice ware. d) The Municipality will provide the required resources and equipment to implement this policy, such as washable foodservice ware in Municipal kitchen facilities, access to dishwashers, and compostable waste disposal. 8. POLICY REVIEW & RESPONSIBILITY This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and in accordance with best practices and any necessary updates will be brought forward for Council review and approval. Department Responsible for review: Office of the CAO  Active Living & Culture  Community & Corporate Services  Engineering & Public Works  Financial Services  Protective Services  9. REPEAL Town of Sackville Policy No. 2022-05 Reducing Plastic Waste Within Town Operations is hereby repealed. ___________________________________ ________________________________ Jennifer Borne, Chief Administrative Officer Date: ___________________________________ ________________________________ Andrew Black, Mayor Date: