British Columbia Regulatory Development

Over the last decade the British Columbia (BC) Ministry of Environment (MoE) has development two key policy frameworks that enable the beneficial use of residuals. The first is the BC Organic Matter Recycling Regulation (OMRR) which applies to the production, distribution, storage, sale and use or land application of biosolids and compost.  The second is the Soil Amendment Code of Practice (SACoP), a ministerial regulation which applies to water treatment residuals, wood waste, pulp and paper sludge, ash and waste lime / lime mud.

SYLVIS worked closely with the MoE in the development and progression of the OMRR and the SACoP.  SYLVIS completed an industrial residuals regulatory and literature review which provided valuable information in the development of the SACoP. In addition, SYLVIS provided professional input and recommendations into the development of both the OMRR and the SACoP through submission of comments in response to proposed changes and through active participation in consultation processes.

To make stakeholders aware of the OMRR and SACoP and the associated criteria of each, SYLVIS has worked closely with the MoE to disseminate information.  In partnership with the MoE, SYLVIS staff have delivered several conference presentations and conducted a workshop for the Union of BC Municipalities.  SYLVIS also worked with the MoE to develop best management practices which facilitate comprehension and use of the OMRR and SACoP.  The Land Application Guidelines for the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation and the Soil Amendment Code of Practice authored by SYLVIS can be found at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/mun-waste/regs/omrr/pdf/land-app-guidelines.pdf

Working closely with the MoE, SYLVIS has assisted in the development of the OMRR and the SACoP.  These policy frameworks promote the beneficial use of residuals, enabling flexibility in beneficial use opportunities while ensuring environmental and human health protection.