Whereas climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of a community experiencing an emergency or disaster event resulting in a sudden increase of debris that requires safe and effective disposal; And whereas debris from emergency or disaster events will be composed of a variety of divertible materials that if not planned for appropriately, will be sent to landfills, taking up already limited landfill airspace: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request that the Province establish a province-wide disaster debris management plan that provides logistical, financial, and operational support for local governments in developing their own disaster and debris management plans and implementing those plans as needed.
Ministry of Environment and Parks Thank you for your resolution regarding the need for a province wide disaster debris management plan to support local governments in preparing for and responding to debris generated during emergency events. The Ministry of Environment and Parks ENV recognizes that climate driven emergencies can generate large quantities of debris and waste that must be managed in a manner that supports public safety. Although waste management activities are generally carried out at the local government level, ENV provides expertise on waste management regulations and, under the Emergency and Disaster Management Regulation, serves as the provincial lead ministry for responding to disasters involving hazardous materials. Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Emergency Management and Climate Readiness EMCR supports communities in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies and disasters. Through existing Disaster Financial Assistance DFA and recovery funding programs, EMCR provides eligible support for response and recovery activities when it meets program criteria and provincial guidelines. BCs legislation for emergency management requires government ministers to create hazard-specific emergency management plans within a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan CEMP. These plans include descriptions of measures necessary or advisable during the response and recovery phases of emergencies, when debris is a significant consideration. EMCR remains committed to working with UBCM and local governments to ensure communities have clear guidance and access to available financial support during disaster events.