Plastics remain a major global environmental issue, one of many challenges the world faces today. In Canada, it's imperative that we take meaningful action within our own jurisdiction. Terms such as single-use plastic ban, biodegradable plastics, compostable plastics, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs, federal plastics registry, recycled content and labelling rules, and zero plastic waste strategy may already be familiar. These represent key components of Canada's plastics regulatory inconsistency landscape.
Canada has pledged to reduce plastic waste, but progress has been inconsistent across provinces. While some jurisdictions have taken proactive steps, such as banning compostable plastics, others continue to permit single-use and biodegradable plastics without regulation.
Provinces like Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island have banned single-use plastic checkout bags, including compostable and oxo-degradable variants. Although these measures are aimed at curbing plastic pollution, they have also drawn criticism for potentially discouraging the development of more sustainable alternatives. Similarly, municipalities like Dawson City in Yukon have introduced bylaws banning compostable plastic items, citing contamination risks in composting systems.
Despite federal initiatives, several provinces, including Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Quebec, have yet to adopt comprehensive bans on single-use plastics. This regulatory patchwork complicates enforcement and creates confusion for both businesses and consumers.
There is an undeniable need for coherent policy across Canada to address plastic pollution effectively. Canada must establish coordinated policies at both federal and provincial levels, by implementing uniform bans on single-use and compostable plastics, strengthening composting and recycling infrastructure to accommodate a wider range of materials, and launching public education campaigns to raise awareness about sustainable practices and responsible waste disposal.
Without unified action, Canada’s strategy to reduce plastic waste risks becoming a disjointed collection of policies with limited impact.
👉 We encourage you to keep yourselves up to date on the regulations and practices surrounding compostable plastic. The LEAF team has compiled an infographic resource including clickable links to offer more insight into plastics regulations across Canada by province – with a specific focus on plastic regulations, compostable plastics and EPR programs.
NOTE: Be sure to check with your local waste management company to confirm which types of bioplastics they accept.