The Alberta government says it will introduce new legislation this fall that would significantly increase penalties for illegal dumping, including higher fines and potential jail time. Under the proposed changes, individuals could face fines ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, while corporations could face penalties from $100,000 to $1 million, according to the province. The legislation would also introduce jail terms of between 30 days and six months for individuals who fail to comply. The province says illegal dumping leaves communities, landowners and taxpayers with cleanup costs and environmental damage, and that the changes are intended to act as a deterrent. “Illegal dumping damages our environment, violates private property and leaves Albertans paying for someone else’s mess. Waste must be disposed of responsibly,” Premier Danielle Smith said in a news release. “We’re cracking down so those who choose to break the law face tougher penalties and serious consequences.” The province also says the legislation would strengthen oversight of higher-risk waste transfer and storage facilities. Under the changes, higher-risk facilities handling large volumes or storing waste for longer periods would be required to obtain provincial registration and meet additional operating requirements. “With stronger oversight of higher-risk waste and storage facilities and tougher penalties for illegal dumping, Alberta is protecting our environment, strengthening communities and standing up for private property owners,” said Environment and Protected Areas Minister Grant Hunter. The government says municipalities are bearing the cost of illegal dumping and hopes the new rules will reduce incidents. “These tougher penalties are about respect: respect for property, respect for the taxpayers who shouldn’t foot the bill, and respect for the neighbours who work hard to keep our communities clean,” said Municipal Affairs Minister Dan Williams. Meanwhile in Calgary, fire crews are battling a landfill fire at the Ecco Recycling facility, with the City of Calgary saying the blaze remains contained and crews are working toward full extinguishment in its latest update.
