EJQ2 - Fall 2024 - Journal - Page 4
Sure, environmental regulations play a critical role in protecting soils and
providing circular solutions. Environmental learning opportunities also
play a role.
As an organizer of the annual Excess Soils Symposium, I’m proud to be
a part of a hard-working team that carefully curates a variety of leading
experts to provide critical updates and valuable insights about how to
better care for soils involved in construction and cleanup projects. We
cater to an enthusiastic community of industry stakeholders, government
representatives, and environmental experts who never fail to dig into the
tough issues. It’s an honour to bring together the speakers and panels,
provide networking opportunities and help facilitate connections that
make a positive di昀昀erence.
However, there are many mountains to climb and several holes we still
need to dig ourselves out of. We need to do better to recover resources and
enable circular solutions. We need to make more of the industry aware of
the latest rules and regulations. And, let’s be honest; regulations are in
force, but the number of cranes and construction projects in progress still
does not seem to be re昀氀ected in the Excess Soils Registry. There is a lack of
consistent participation and compliance.
“Regulations are in force, but the number of cranes and
construction projects in progress does not seem to be
re昀氀ected in the Excess Soils Registry.”
While we can share an appreciation for the progress of much needed
communities and housing opportunities, we can’t a昀昀ord and shouldn’t
be allowed to have a cavalier attitude about how certain sites are doing
business. The federal and provincial governments have o昀昀ered many
carrots to encourage compliance, but what about the sticks?
The history of the environment tells us that regulations are essential, and
educational events are helpful, but unless infractions and prosecutions are
a reality, and until there’s a court case to point to, some might not get the
message.
Connie Vitello is editor of Environment Journal. Join the
conversation. Send your thoughts to connie@actualmedia.ca
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