Mr. Bitter provided the Committee with an Eco-Angels package including letter to the City Clerk’s office requesting a deputation to City Council, proposal, how it works, criteria and logo. Mr. Bitter presented background information about P&C Compostech (i.e. location of business, growth in last 6 months and anticipated growth) and noted that demand and acceptance of the compostable packaging, cups and cutlery has continued to grow in the Niagara Region.
Mr. Bitter announced that a PLA plant, which creates cold drink cups, forks, knives etc., will be opening in Niagara Falls. Mr. Bitter then presented the Eco-Angels proposal to the Committee.
Frank Fohr questioned how the products could be differentiated from regular plastics and noted that a selling feature of the program could be the reduction of a businesses carbon footprint. Mr. Bitter pointed out that education of the products is the most important step of the program. Events like “Springaliscious” are opportune times to promote and educate the users about the product and its benefits. Reducing a businesses carbon footprint is a natural criteria for the program.
Fran Berry questioned the time frame to launch the Eco-Angels program as well as the turn around time for a company to be recognized. Fran also suggested that Niagara should be promoted as the first City to develop this program and that it should be promoted nationally. Mr. Bitter indicated that the national media would be notified of this program and that Niagara Falls would be promoted heavily. Mr. Bitter also indicated that the anticipated launch of the program was in April, and that the turn around time for businesses depended on how quickly they implemented their green plan.
Paisley Janvary-Pool questioned if this program was only for the businesses or if it would be available to residents as well. Paisley noted that this is a program that would work well under Communities in Bloom but questioned how Mr. Bitter would role it out for the proposed month of April. Paisley also asked if the Chamber of Commerce had been approached to notify businesses of this opportunity and questioned what the Committees and City’s obligations would be.
Mr. Bitter indicated that he would request that City representatives attend 1 or 2 monthly meetings when presenting certificates. Mr. Bitter indicated that City staff would provide support in developing presentations. In addition, if available, the Committee would be asked to volunteer on occasion to assist with the implementation of the program. Councillor Wing acknowledged that the primary issues of compostable products are education, reward and recognition even at the Municipal level.
Councillor Wing also asked if a cost analysis/breakdown had been completed and who would be responsible for the implementation costs.
Mr. Bitter noted that P&C Compostech would absorb all costs associated with the program. Councillor Wing made a motion that the Park in the City Committee endorse the Eco-Angels program and that staff investigate opportunities to play a supporting role in the implementation.
Fran Berry seconded the motion.
All in favour.
