Reusable container pilot project coming to Ottawa grocery stores
When Jarno van der Kolk buys groceries, he opts for to shop at NU Grocery, a zero-waste grocery store.
"Sometimes I go to supermarkets and don't buy things because there's way too much packaging and too much plastic," he said. The Ottawa resident brings in reusable containers for items like dry goods and condiments — his way of curbing plastic pollution.
Soon he'll have more options. A new federal pilot project is in the works to reduce single-use plastics at major grocery retailers and it's taking place right here in Ottawa.
"Think of things the sushi, the salad bar, the deli — these are areas of fresh food where reusable containers can be commonly used so we're starting with that area and hopefully spread to other parts of the grocery store," said Jo-Anne St. Godard, the executive director of Circular Innovation Council.
- Sign up now for daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
- The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App
The group is leading the project in collaboration with the Canadian government and Canadian grocers Metro, Farm Boy and Walmart Canada.
Customers will be able to buy some food in containers that can be dropped back off and repurposed later on. Phase two will see the program expand, allowing people to bring back take-out containers to restaurants in the neighbourhood. Details like what the packaging will look like and for which products it can be used still need to be ironed out.
The pilot project is expected to start in early June, with testing at select grocery stores along Bank Street.
"I wish it was widespread already. I'm so sad with all the containers we throw out each week that aren't recyclable," said Ottawa resident Caroline Sutherland.
On Tuesday, the federal government announced new funding to reduce plastic waste.
"Canada is extending an additional $10 million to the global action partnership," said Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault.
Part of that will go to the pilot project in Ottawa.
"There's a lot of stuff in the supermarket that does not need to be in plastic. If we can get our own reusable containers, I would use it a lot more," said van der Kolk.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Feels like mid-30s in parts of Canada, while other areas expecting snow
Anything is possible this week, as far as Canada's weather is concerned, with forecasts ranging from scorching heat in some parts of the country to rain and snow in others.
BREAKING Canada's inflation cools to 3-year low of 2.7%, in boost for rate cut bets
Canada's annual inflation rate slowed to a three-year low of 2.7 per cent in April, matching expectations, and core measures continued to ease, data showed on Tuesday, likely boosting chances of a June interest rate cut.
One dead and 30 injured after severe turbulence hits Singapore Airlines flight
One person has died aboard a London-Singapore flight that encountered severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines said Tuesday. The plane was diverted to Bangkok, where emergency crews rushed to help injured passengers amid stormy weather.
Independent stores and grocery alternatives see sales boost amid Loblaw boycott
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
How to check the Air Quality Health Index and assess your health risks
As we enter another wildfire season, Environment and Climate Change Canada is advising people to pay attention to air pollution levels and check the Air Quality Health Index – especially on smoky days.
Cardinal Lacroix cleared after investigation ordered by the Pope
The Vatican has announced that the investigation it commissioned into allegations of sexual touching against Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix did not confirm any act constituting misconduct or abuse on the part of the Vatican.
Trudeau making 'Team Canada' pitch in visit to Philadelphia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Philadelphia today, on his first trip south of the border since his government launched a new 'Team Canada' charm offensive in the United States.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Final
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.