Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC) has expressed concern that the proposed Federal Plastics Registry could impose additional administrative and financial burdens on produce producers. The Registry, announced by Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault in December, is part of Canada's efforts to reduce plastic pollution.
While FVGC acknowledges the importance of addressing plastic pollution, it warns that the Registry’s requirements could add to the reporting burden of existing provincial data systems. The Registry would require producers to report annually on the quantity and types of plastic they use, its journey through the economy, and its end-of-life management.
According to FVGC, growers are already required to report to provincial Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems. The introduction of a federal registry could result in unnecessary duplication unless it aligns with or streamlines these existing obligations. FVGC suggests that any new reporting requirements should offer tangible benefits to the industry, such as improved guidance for growers or a centralized repository of readily accessible information.
FVGC proposes focusing on harmonizing the various provincial EPR reporting requirements, which could reduce the administrative burden on growers and ensure a more unified approach to addressing plastic pollution. The organization is open to a constructive dialogue with the government to balance environmental objectives with the operational realities of fruit and vegetable growers in Canada.
Guilbeault asserts that the Registry would complement existing provincial reporting requirements, harmonize plastics data across the country, and make this information openly accessible through a new reporting platform. The government plans to work with the provinces to implement a Canada-wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste and Action Plan.
The consultation on the proposed Federal Plastics Registry will run until Feb. 13.
Source: nationalnewswatch.com