There is limited verified data on the generation, diversion, and disposal of Packaging & Printed Paper (PPP) materials, particularly plastic packaging and beverage containers, in the IC&I sector. This data is crucial to advancing national policies on waste and plastic reduction. Currently, comparable and reliable data for individual provinces and at the national level, especially for plastic beverage containers, is scarce.

CIC, commissioned by ECCC, conducted research to baseline the collection and recycling of regulated PPP and beverage containers in Ontario’s IC&I sector and other away-from-home sources. The study followed Ontario’s Resource Recovery and Circular Economy Act (RRCEA) packaging regulations and excluded materials outside its scope, such as organics and alcoholic beverage containers.

In July 2023–March 2024, CIC conducted 15 audits using trained auditors and the Standard Waste Audit Method (SWAM). Data included total materials generated, recycled, and disposed, with a focus on regulated PPP and six key single-use plastic items (e.g., bags, cutlery, and straws). Audits also included questionnaires on facility practices and evaluations of waste management service providers’ documentation and communication efforts.

The full report provides detailed findings, including brand-specific analysis of plastic beverage containers, in Section 5. Download the report for complete results.