Opened on November 19, 2025 and will close to new input on December 19, 2025.
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Overview
Current status: Open
As part of New Brunswick's Solid Waste Strategic Action Plan 2023-2030 (PDF 15.5 MB), the Department of Environment and Local Government is proposing to create an organic waste disposal cap that restricts the amount of organic waste that can be disposed of in our regional landfills. This disposal cap would support a province-wide organics program, helping us put this material to better use while lowering the generation of greenhouse gases. This program will aim to reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Your input on the proposed program will help drive improvements in waste management in New Brunswick.
How to participate
Send an email
We are seeking feedback and invite written
submissions by December 19, 2025.
Timeline
December 19, 2025 - Consultation closes
About organic waste
Organic waste is generally defined as biodegradable materials from a plant or animal. It includes:
- food waste
- soiled paper products (e.g., paper towel and napkins)
- leaf and yard waste
- pet waste
Approximately 30% of all waste disposed in Brunswick’s regional landfills is organic waste which come from both the residential and the industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) sectors like schools, hospitals, multi-family dwellings, industry associations, restaurants, grocery stores and other businesses.
When organic waste is disposed of in landfills, sites reach capacity sooner and generate greenhouse gases. Reducing organic waste in landfills can help extend their lifespan and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
Proposed Province-wide Organics Program
The department is proposing a disposal cap to limit the amount of organic waste sent to landfills. This cap could serve as the first step toward a province-wide organics program. Some key elements include:
Organic waste disposal cap
The disposal cap would limit the amount of organic waste that can be landfilled. The initial cap would be 20% of total annual waste disposed at regional landfills. The cap would be reviewed every 5 years, with the goal to further reduce the amount of organic waste disposed of in landfills over time.
Approved processing facilities
To prevent the mismanagement of organic waste diverted from landfills, the department is proposing that it be processed only at approved facilities. Some approved processing facilities could include, but are not limited to, anerobic digestion and composting.
Collaboration
It is the intention that the Regional Service Commissions, municipalities, local governments and the ICI sector in each region will work together to decide how the organic waste stream is separated, collected, processed and/or disposed.
What do you think?
We want your input on the proposed changes. Your lived experience and community perspective matter.
- Does this proposal seem like the right approach?
- What would help make this proposal more effective?
- Are there other considerations we should explore?
Looking for more detail?
We’ve also prepared a more detailed engagement document to help guide your thoughts on the proposed program.