Whereas illegal dumping of waste on Crown land and provincial rights-of-way continues to be a growing problem, particularly in rural locations, resulting in unsightly and dangerous refuse deposits in natural areas; And whereas local governments contribute significant resources to mitigate illegal dumping, and the Province has the mandate for illegal dumping enforcement on Crown land: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM urge the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy to report out on the action of the provincial working group, review resources and strategies for addressing illegal dumping and optimize partnerships with local governments to more effectively combat this problem.
Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, through the Conservation Officer Service COS, and the Report all Poachers and Polluters RAPP service 1-877-952-7277, https:forms.gov.bc.caenvironmentrapp is the lead provincial government agency for responding to complaints of illegal dumping. The COS takes appropriate action based upon officer availability and available evidence collected at the scene and responds accordingly. The issue of illegal dumping is a shared responsibility among all involved and efforts are continuing to address this issue. Under the authority of the Environmental Management Act, local governments in British Columbia address waste management practices, including illegal dumping, in their solid waste management plans. Local law enforcement, provincial conservation officers and by-law enforcement officers can issue tickets when incidents are brought to their attention. Private land and forestry owners can restrict access and report areas and incidents. Private citizens, community and outdoor groups, and the media often profile illegal dumping incidents and associated community clean-up events. To support these efforts, the province continues to undertake work on waste prevention and waste management programs, including the recent announcement to include additional items of concern in reported illegal dumping incidents e.g., mattresses in Extended Producer Responsibility under the Recycling Regulation. As part of the stewardship planning processes, stewardship agencies must demonstrate how the public will be made aware of the free return options available to them. The provincial government will continue to work with local governments to identify solutions to this challenging problem, including exploring opportunities for improving illegal dumping reporting options; enforcing compliance when resources are available; and identifying actions under the Environmental Management Act and through the Solid Waste Management Planning process.