Table of Contents - City of Burlington

Transcription

State of the
Environment Report IV
For the City of Burlington
DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV -
March 2011
Prepared by the Burlington Sustainable Development Committee
2
Acknowledgments
The Burlington Sustainable Development Committee prepared this report, and the
following current and past members were the main authors of the chapters:
Michelle Bennett
Ivan Fernandez
Lynne Gough
Mark Johnson
Jana Keleman
Alyssa Kuszczak
David McKay
David Rokosh
Angela Scrannage
Guy Sheppard
Herb Sinnock
Margaret Small
Paul Toffoletti
Jeff Walker
The committee thanks all staff from the city and other agencies that reviewed a draft of
the report. Their suggestions and advice greatly assisted in ensuring up-to-date and
accurate information.
Special thanks go to Lynn Robichaud, the City of Burlington’s Senior Sustainability
Coordinator. She provided liaison with city staff and staff from other agencies, located
resource documents for authors and provided advice and assistance through the many
drafts of the document. Without her assistance this document would not have been
possible.
Lynne Gough, Editor
Disclaimer
The opinions contained in the State of the Environment Report (SOER) are those of the
Burlington Sustainable Development Committee and may not reflect the opinions of city or
regional staff, council members or external agencies. Effort has been made to ensure facts and
data are correct and up to date where possible at the time of writing and editing. However, it is
acknowledged that many of the topics covered in this document are dynamic in nature.
Therefore, some information may not reflect the current situation. A reader that is planning to use
information in the SOER as reference material should contact the appropriate agency to ensure
information contained herein continues to be relevant.
3
Table of Contents
Page
Introduction ...................................................................................................................... i
Background .................................................................................................................... iv
SOER IV Recommendations ......................................................................................... ix
Chapter 1: Natural Heritage .......................................................................................... 1
Issue: Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) ........................................................... 1
Issue: Cootes to Escarpment Land Strategy and Park System ................................. 10
Issue: Urban Forest .................................................................................................... 11
Chapter 2: Land Use Planning .................................................................................... 13
Issue: Demographics ................................................................................................. 13
Issue: Housing ........................................................................................................... 15
Issue: Intensification ................................................................................................... 18
Issue: Employment Lands .......................................................................................... 21
Issue: Parks and Open Space ................................................................................... 22
Issue: Sustainability Indicators ................................................................................... 22
Issue: School Infrastructure and Enrolment ............................................................... 24
Chapter 3: Rural Lands and Agriculture .................................................................... 29
Issue: Rural Lands for Agricultural Use ....................................................................... 29
Issue: Rural Lands ...................................................................................................... 35
Issue: Urban Agriculture ............................................................................................. 37
Issue: Farmers’ Markets and On-farm Sales.............................................................. 39
Chapter 4: Waste Management .................................................................................... 42
Issue: Monitoring of Closed Landfill Sites .................................................................. 42
Issue: Current Landfill Site ......................................................................................... 44
Issue: Diversion and Transformation ......................................................................... 46
Issue: Industrial, Commercial and Institutional (IC&I) Waste ..................................... 50
Chapter 5: Transportation ........................................................................................... 52
Issue: Personal Vehicle Transportation Choices ....................................................... 52
Issue: Public Transit ................................................................................................... 54
Issue: Walking and Cycling ........................................................................................ 58
Chapter 6: Energy ........................................................................................................ 61
Issue: Electricity and Natural Gas Consumption ........................................................ 61
Issue: Energy End Use .............................................................................................. 65
Chapter 7: Air Quality .................................................................................................. 69
Issue: Smog ............................................................................................................... 72
Issue: Air Quality Index .............................................................................................. 73
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Chapter 8: Water ........................................................................................................... 79
Issue: Surface Water .................................................................................................. 80
Issue: Stormwater Management ................................................................................ 91
Issue: Groundwater .................................................................................................... 93
Issue: Drinking Water and Water Consumption ......................................................... 96
Chapter 9: Wastewater .............................................................................................. 101
Issue: Wastewater Effluent Quality .......................................................................... 101
Issue: Biosolids ........................................................................................................ 105
Issue: Effluent Quantity ............................................................................................ 105
Chapter 10: Climate Change ..................................................................................... 108
Issue: Greenhouse Gas Emissions .......................................................................... 112
Issue: Possible Climate Change Effects in Burlington and Adaptation Measures ... 116
Chapter 11: Sustainable Buildings ........................................................................... 122
Issue: Green Buildings in Burlington ........................................................................ 123
Issue: Home Renovations – ecoEnergy Retrofit Program........................................ 126
Chapter 12: Sustainable Consumption in Practice ................................................. 128
Issue: Retailers Response to Sustainable Products and Practices.......................... 128
Issue: Eco-Certification Labels to Guide Consumers ............................................... 129
Issue: Green Procurement Policies .......................................................................... 130
APPENDIX A – SOER III Recommendations ............................................................. 133
5
Introduction
This is the fourth State of the Environment Report (SOER) prepared by the Burlington
Sustainable Development Committee. The committee was formed in 1990 and is a
volunteer citizen committee that provides advice to Burlington City Council. The purpose
of this report is to provide information on the state and health of Burlington’s
environment and to make recommendations for improving it.
In 1990 the City of Burlington declared itself a sustainable development community,
defined as “a community which is in harmony with its environment and which strives to
provide its citizens with safe, comfortable livelihoods”. Burlington’s community vision as
identified in Future Focus Seven, the city’s strategic plan, is the following: “Burlington is
a progressive, Great Lake city located along the Niagara Escarpment, a city known for
its leadership and commitment to its unique natural heritage, thriving and diversified
economy and outstanding community values.”
Community growth and development have an impact on the environment. Environment
as described in this report includes not only the components of the natural environment air, water and land - but also the community environment - rural and urban land uses.
The impact of growth on the environment is easily stated, but not easily measured. If our
community is to remain sustainable, environmental impacts must be measured and
minimized as our community grows and develops.
This report identifies twelve themes, and the themes are the twelve chapter headings.
Within each theme there are several issues, and for each of the issues, the report
includes sections on:




Why it was measured
What was measured – indicators
What was found – indicator values and trends
What is happening to address the issue
Each chapter then ends with a conclusion and recommendations on all the issues in the
chapter.
Previous State of the Environment Reports were prepared in 2007, 2004 and 1998. The
number of topics reviewed and measured has changed over the years, based on the
availability of data, and based on the importance and relevance that the committee
thought significant. Some topics can be traced over the years and it can be determined
whether or not progress has been made on achieving sustainability. As many of the
measures have changed and many of the results are subjective rather than objective,
there is no overall conclusion on whether the state of the environment has improved or
not. Changes to the report content were made for such reasons as new author
preference and data became unavailable, but also the report was re-organized and
alternative data sources were substituted.
The table overleaf provides a summary of the topics covered in each of the four SOER
reports:
i
Chapter
SOER I - 1998
ESAs
Biota or
Natural
Heritage
SOER IV - 2011
Biodiversity
ESAs
Other Natural
Areas
ESAs
Cootes to
Escarpment
-
-
-
Urban parks
-
Population
Housing
Commercial &
industrial land
Brownfields
Urban parks
-
Demographics
Housing
Employment
Lands
Brownfields
Urban parks
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Rural lands for
agriculture
-
Rural lands for
agriculture
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Closed landfill
site
Municipal solid
waste
Waste diverted
ICI waste
Household
hazardous
waste
Hazardous and
liquid industrial
waste
Pesticides
PCB waste
Closed landfill
site
Municipal solid
waste
Waste diverted
ICI waste
Household
hazardous
waste
-
Agriculture
Rural and
Agriculture
SOER III - 2007
-
Population
Housing
Urban Land
Use Planning
SOER II - 2004
Closed landfill
site
Municipal solid
waste
Waste diverted
Household
hazardous
Waste
Management waste
Hazardous and
liquid industrial
waste
PCB waste
Biomedical
waste
Vehicles
Public transit
Transportation Bikeways
Winter control
Vehicles
Public transit
Bikeways
Winter control
ii
Urban forest
Demographics
Housing
Employment
Lands
Urban parks
Intensification
Sustainability
indicators
School
infrastructure
Rural lands for
agriculture
Rural lands
Urban
agriculture
Farmers
markets
Closed landfill
site
Waste diverted
ICI waste
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Vehicles
Public transit
Bikeways
-
Vehicles
Public transit
Walking and
cycling
-
Chapter
Energy
Air Quality
SOER I - 1998
Electrical
energy
consumption
Wastewater
Noise
Climate
Change
Sustainable
Buildings
Sustainable
Consumption
SOER III - 2007
Electrical
energy
consumption
SOER IV - 2011
Electrical
energy
consumption
Energy use &
greenhouse
gas
Air quality index Air quality index Air quality index
Smog
Common air
Common air
Other air
pollutants
pollutants
pollutants
VOCs
VOCs
VOCs
Wind and
pollution
Groundwater
Groundwater
-
Electrical
energy
consumption
Energy use
Surface water
Surface water
Stormwater
management
Drinking water
quality
Water
consumption
Drinking water
quality
Water
consumption
Recreational
(beach
closures)
Effluent quality
Effluent
quantity
Noise pollution
Surface water
Stormwater
management
Drinking water
quality
Water
consumption
Recreational
(beach
closures)
Effluent quality
Effluent
quantity
Noise pollution
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Water
SOER II - 2004
Surface water
Drinking water
quality
Water
consumption
Air quality index
Smog
Groundwater
-
-
-
Effluent quality
Effluent
quantity
Biosolids
Global climate
trends
Possible
change in
Burlington
Effects on
infrastructure
and operations
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Effluent quality
Effluent
quantity
Biosolids
Global climate
trends
Possible
change in
Burlington
Effects on
infrastructure
and operations
Green buildings
Home
renovations
Retailers
Ecocertification
labels
Green
procurement
iii
Background
Burlington is a city that lies at the western end of Lake Ontario. In the northern part of
the city is the Niagara Escarpment and the Greenbelt, both of which are being retained
as rural lands. The area of the city south of the Niagara Escarpment and the Greenbelt,
generally the lands south of Highway 407, form the urban area of the city.
Administratively, the city is one of the local municipalities that make up Halton Region,
and the city is part of the Greater Golden Horseshoe area as defined by the province.
City of Burlington
iv
Sustainable Development
The definition of sustainable development that is used by the Burlington Sustainable
Development Committee is the definition put forth by the United Nations Brundtland
Commission on the Environment and Development: "Sustainable development is
development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs." The Burlington Sustainable Development
Committee has developed this definition into the following principles and objectives that
are used as a framework for the committee’s work:
Principles:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Support responsible development that promotes efficiency and enhances the
quality of life.
Protect the environment in both a proactive and remedial manner, with emphasis
on anticipation and prevention.
Make decisions that recognize the interdependence of humans and nature in a
common ecosystem.
Promote responsible resource use and conservation practices.
Have regard for environmental, economic and social costs and benefits in the
development and use of resources, products and services.
Promote responsible stewardship to ensure equitable use of natural and
environmental resources in order to meet essential needs of both present and
future generations.
Objectives:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Protection of Natural Resources: Preserve and extend accessible green
spaces, shorelines, natural water courses and the Niagara Escarpment for future
generations.
Reforestation of the City: Promote the replanting and management of
vegetation on private and public property within the city.
Full Public Participation in Development Decisions: Allow the public to be
part of all planning decisions. Economic, environmental and social impacts of
proposed developments should be considered.
Actively Promote Sustainable Development: Advocate changes at the senior
levels of government, as well as in the city, in order to evolve towards
sustainability.
Make the Best Use of Land: Land-use decisions based upon an ecosystem
approach to ensure environmental integrity and diversity. To include, but not be
limited to, promoting environmentally sensitive lands and using fertile soil for
agriculture throughout the municipality.
Protection and Enhancement of Natural Features: Protect and enhance
Burlington's natural features by ensuring that the physical features of shorelines,
agriculture lands, flood plains, forestry tracts and notable landmarks such as the
Niagara Escarpment are preserved for future generations.
Natural Storm Water Management: Protect water courses in their natural state
and for those water courses that have been significantly altered, restoration to a
more natural state will be encouraged as opportunities arise.
Balanced Development: Provide a community plan and an economic strategy
aimed at creating sustainable and appropriate forms of development that reflect
human scale and a sense of community as well as representing a balance
between urban development and natural surroundings.
v
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Efficient Urban Design: Increase the efficiency of land use in the urban
community in terms of energy and time, promote intensification and
diversification policies rather than policies that generate urban sprawl.
Minimal Discharge of Toxic Pesticides and Other Toxic Chemicals: Promote
the elimination of private and public use of toxic pesticides and other chemicals
that have negative effects on the environment, particularly those known to be
persistent.
Accessible Community Development: Form a new type of community
development which includes readily available local community components such
as commerce, shopping, employment, education and recreation within walking
distance of all residences.
Responsible Use of Natural Resources: Encourage conservation of natural
resources, the city should work towards ensuring that users are charged for the
full local costs of their individual use of water, electricity and sanitary sewers.
There should also be educational programs to encourage conservation of natural
resources.
Integration of Natural Features and Green Space: Integrate natural features
and green space in all new developments and intensification projects.
Energy Conservation: Promote energy conservation through efficient land use
planning and building design.
Ecosystem Auditing: City of Burlington should prepare an objective ecosystem
audit of the entire municipality at regular intervals.
Balanced Transportation System: Develop a balanced transportation system
including transit, pedestrian, and cycling amenities and best use of the road
system for movement of goods and people, with the existing facilities used to
their fullest capacity.
Evaluation of Development: Continuous monitoring and evaluation of
development should take place to ensure that it does not have adverse impacts
on the city's finances and the environment.
The chapters in this State of the Environment Report are an attempt to measure the
sustainability principles and objectives.
Healthy Community
The concept of a healthy community is related to the concept of sustainable
development, but the concept goes further to include aspects of the health and fitness of
residents. The Burlington Official Plan contains the following definition of a healthy
community:
“Healthy communities - are communities:
(1) that foster among their residents a state of physical, mental, social
and economic well-being;
(2) where residents take part in, and have a sense of control over,
decisions that affect them;
(3) that is physically designed to minimize the stress of daily living and
meet the life-long needs of its residents; and
(4) where employment, social, health, educational, and recreational and
cultural opportunities are accessible to all segments of the
community.”
vi
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV In the policy framework of the Official Plan, guiding principle b) states:
”Support a healthy, clean and sustainable community based on an
ecosystem approach and the implementation of the principles of
Sustainable Development, by ensuring that environmental integrity and
diversity, social and economic factors, and compatibility are considered in
land use decisions.”
This report measures several aspects of a healthy community, in particular,
demographics, walkability, air quality and environmental areas. The intent of this report
is to determine whether Burlington is making progress on sustainable development,
however, as several aspects of becoming a healthy community are also measured, there
are some conclusions in the report that relate to progress in becoming a healthy
community.
Many aspects of a healthy community can be addressed through the planning process,
in particular by policies in the Official Plan, but also through standards in the zoning bylaw and through requirements in the site plan approval process. The Burlington Official
Plan addresses the following healthy community issues:
•
•
•
•
•
•
transit – promotes public transit and transit-supportive land uses, and requires
that the highest priority for improving transit service be in the Fairview
Street/Plains Road corridor and on Brant Street connecting Downtown and the
Burlington GO Transit station. In addition the Official Plan sets a goal of 15% of
all trips within Burlington by public transit.
sidewalks – walking is actively promoted in the Plan through the provision of
sidewalks.
mixed use development - this is a specific land use designation, and it promotes
a combination of residential uses with commercial, institutional and employment
uses, in particular in the Downtown and Uptown (located at Upper Middle Road
and Appleby Line) areas.
location of shopping areas is determined in secondary plans.
bikeways are considered to be an integral part of the city’s transportation system.
location of schools is determined through secondary plans.
The following aspects of the zoning by-law affect some healthy community issues:
•
•
building requirements, such as height, massing and number of parking spaces
which can affect the design of buildings, and their relationship and connection to
surrounding land uses.
building setbacks from the street – these can affect the accessibility for
pedestrians and transit users. For the downtown area there are design
guidelines that give requirements for buildings and streets that generally increase
the integration of pedestrian and transit access to the buildings.
During the site plan approval process, many aspects of healthy communities are
addressed including:
•
the relationship of the building to the street, including access and egress for
pedestrians and cyclists.
vii
•
the provision and location of sidewalks.
landscaping – provision of plants and trees on the site, and could include
recommendations on providing native plant material.
There are several issues that the planning process cannot address that affect whether a
community is a healthy community - such issues as children walking to school, eating
healthy food, choosing alternative transportation to the car and choosing an active
lifestyle.
In this report we have measured several healthy community issues, however, despite
measuring them we were unable to conclude whether or not Burlington is a healthy
community. This lack of a conclusion is mainly because there is no accepted list of
measurements and because many of the measures are subjective rather than objective.
We have noted that improvements are being made on several indicators, such as
increased transit usage, more recycling of waste, reduced energy consumption per
capita and a new interest in green buildings, but we still rely on private cars and do not
seem to be able to appreciably increase the use of public transit. Trying to determine
whether Burlington residents walk or cycle more, or eat healthy food has proved
impossible to measure.
On several other issues, more information is needed before we can determine whether
or not there are any improvements related to air quality, water consumption or any
progress on adapting to climate change.
viii
SOER IV Recommendations
Natural Heritage:
1. That the city continue to support the Cootes to Escarpment Land Strategy and Park
System by directing staff to work with partner agencies and landowners.
2. That the city support the urban forest and implement the Urban Forest Management
Plan.
Land Use Planning:
3. That the city work with the two school boards to examine planned school closures to
ensure that, as much as possible, all school lands are preserved as public green space
and that, where appropriate, the school building is re-used.
Rural Lands & Agriculture:
4. The city support a community garden policy that identifies and builds communal plots,
and communicates and co-ordinates availability through its website and communication
capabilities.
5. The city continue to pursue interest in establishing a Farmers’ Market in downtown
Burlington, and actively promote and encourage residents to support local food producers
and farms with an awareness campaign.
6. The city encourage citizens to establish backyard gardens through an awareness
campaign
Waste Management:
7. That waste reduction be a central theme in educating Burlington’s citizens using the
region’s audit of residential garbage as a starting point.
8. That the region be encouraged to recycle more plastics, and to research ways to recycle
Styrofoam, especially number 6, as in Hamilton, and encourage local businesses to
reduce their use of Styrofoam.
Transportation:
9. That the city continue to build more cycleways in Burlington – in particular that Lakeshore
Road east of downtown be converted to contain bike lanes instead of a centre-turn lane
within the next three years and that the connection to Hamilton across the lift bridge be
implemented.
10. That the city undertake a cycling survey to determine the actual number of Burlington
residents who ride their bikes, and to use the information to assist in the implementation
and prioritization of the Cycling Master Plan.
11. That the city encourage GO Transit to undertake improvements to the Burlington and
Aldershot stations, similar to the improvements planned for Appleby station.
Energy:
12. That the city complete a Community Energy Plan with a focus on generation, including
opportunities for district and renewable energy, community conservation initiatives, green
building infrastructure, the distribution grid, and energy management. Consideration
should also be given to land use planning and transportation initiatives to ensure an
efficient and energy conserving community.
ix
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV 13. That the city prepare corporate energy reduction targets and mechanisms to find energy
saving initiatives by considering both upfront capital and operating costs.
14. That the city participate in a renewable energy co-operative with city facilities and
residents, as permitted under the Green Energy and Green Economy Act 2009.
Air Quality:
15. That the Region of Halton be requested to install their air monitoring equipment in
Burlington so that Burlington-specific air quality measurements can be obtained.
Water:
16. That the city, in partnership with Conservation Halton as appropriate, undertake a series
of pilot projects on city properties using Low Impact Development stormwater
management techniques to treat stormwater runoff at its source rather than conveying it
through the traditional stormwater infrastructure.
17. That the city work with the Region of Halton to institute a comprehensive and well
publicized water conservation and efficiency strategy that includes incentives to
encourage water use reduction by residents and industry. Measures can include fixture
and appliance rebates, rainwater reuse incentives, and a water distribution system leak
detection program. The City of Guelph Water Conservation and Efficiency Strategy can
be used as a template.
Climate Change:
18. That the city and the region complete the five milestones under the Partners for Climate
Protection program.
19. That the city complete the following:
o Develop and implement a corporate action plan with a more aggressive corporate
target (at a minimum the federal 17% reduction from 2005 by 2020) for reducing
CO2 emissions;
o Establish a working group to follow-up on the Take Action Burlington – Climate
Change Summit to further engage the public and help develop a community
action plan and reduction target; and,
o Track and monitor corporate and community progress on reducing greenhouse
gas emissions on an annual basis.
20. That the city and region investigate in more depth how expected changes in weather and
climate are likely to affect their operations and develop an adaptation plan to mitigate the
damages of climate change and reduce the vulnerability of Burlington’s inhabitants,
critical infrastructure and environment.
Sustainable Buildings:
21. That the city prepare a program to encourage a level of green standards in all planning
development applications, as well as to provide incentives for those who are willing to
achieve higher standards than required.
22. That the city undertake a training program for city staff who deal with planning
applications and building permits to obtain LEED accreditation, This program could also
extend to educating the public on LEED.
Sustainable Consumption in Practice:
23. That the city complete and implement the Green Procurement Policy.
x
Chapter 1: Natural Heritage
Introduction
The natural heritage in Burlington may be considered as the areas of the city which
remain in a state or which have reverted to a state that is controlled by natural processes
rather than human intervention. The best known of these is the portion of the Niagara
Escarpment within the city boundaries. But there are a considerable number of smaller
areas – creek valleys, woodlots, hedgerows, wetlands, etc. - that are also natural areas
and are of importance to the ecological balance of our city. It should be emphasized that
a substantial amount of these areas are in private ownership.
Natural areas provide habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, especially those
that are rare or endangered. They provide travel corridors for animals and birds
between various parts of the city. They provide groundwater recharge and cleansing
areas. Some provide hiking and nature observation areas for residents and visitors.
They are an essential part of our city and, if Burlington is to be truly sustainable, need to
be preserved and enhanced.
This section focuses on three areas related to the city’s natural heritage. The first issue
deals with Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs). These are specific areas identified
by Halton Region as being of particular ecological significance and which are protected
by specific policies. The Region has introduced a Natural Heritage System under
Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) 38 that provides for the integrity of ESAs as it
encompasses and connects all significant natural heritage features (such as significant
woodlands, significant valleylands and areas of natural and scientific interest). It is of
interest that six of our eleven ESAs are located within the urban boundary, in north and
south Aldershot. Their location within an urban area makes them especially valuable but
also vulnerable.
The second issue is the The Cootes to Escarpment Land Strategy and Park System and
a review of the background that lead up to the creation of this initiative by a number of
agencies, non-government organizations (NGO), and local government, including the
City of Burlington.
The third issue is the Urban Forest Management Plan that was approved in 2010 by the
City of Burlington.
Issue: Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs)
Why it was Measured
An important indicator of the health and continuing validity of an ESA is the diversity of
species found therein.
What was Measured
Information on the location, size, features and major species of Burlington’s ESAs was
obtained from the Region of Halton’s updated ESA report dated April 2005. Information
1
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV was updated to 2006 from the “Halton Natural Areas Inventory 2006” that was completed
by the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club, the South Peel Field Naturalists’ Club and the Halton
North Peel Field Naturalists’ Club.
What was Found
The total land area of the eleven ESAs in Burlington – shown in Figure 1.1 overleaf is
approximately 2,371 hectares. In comparison, the land area of the City of Burlington is
approximately 17,700 hectares. ESAs are home to a wide variety of plant and animal
life. Most contain species that are rare on a local, regional, provincial or national level.
Five of these areas are shared with the City of Hamilton and one area, the Bronte Creek
Valley ESA, is shared with the Town of Oakville. Nine of the eleven ESAs contain areas
of natural or scientific interest (ANSI) because of their unique biological, hydrological, or
geological features. Since these natural areas are within the undeveloped regions of
Burlington, they are generally connected by woodland, forming migration corridors for
native species. Five of the ESAs are located in North Aldershot and are within the urban
boundary, so land surrounding these ESAs can be subject to development applications.
ESAs containing creek valleys are linked through natural corridors to Hamilton Harbour
or Lake Ontario. Most ESAs are within the Niagara Escarpment, which has been
designated by the United Nations as a World Biosphere Reserve. The Burlington Beach
and Bronte Creek Valley ESAs are not within the Niagara Escarpment
Nine of these ESAs contain woodlands greater than 100 ha in area, while three contain
woodlands exceeding 400 ha. Four ESAs are wide enough to contain forest interior
habitat. Forest interior areas are relatively small in relation to the total area of their
respective ESA. All ESAs contain hardwood forests, typical of southern Ontario, while
two contain areas of mixed conifer-hardwood forests. All ESAs contain trees more than
60 years old, while five contain specimens greater than 100 years of age. Four ESAs
contain significant wetlands and four contain escarpment features.
Collectively these ESAs, along with interconnecting woodland corridors, form a network
of hardwood forest encircling the escarpment and a habitat continuum from the Dundas
Valley through to the escarpment north of Derry Road. These natural areas are also
linked to Lake Ontario through natural corridors along the Grindstone Creek and Bronte
Creek valleys. Together this network forms a tremendous resource of natural habitat
supporting native biota. Individually these natural areas, modified by geological and
climatic conditions, contain unique habitats for some of the rarest Canadian species.
ESAs and adjacent lands are regulated by the Region of Halton’s Official Plan, with the
principal of preserving the physical and biological features of these designated land
areas. Regional policies place limits on development in these areas. Development
applications, not subject to review by Land Division policies, the Ontario Environmental
Assessment Act or Conservation Halton and the Ministry of Natural Resources forest
management policies must, in addition, file an Environmental Impact Assessment report.
Development applications are refused if they fail to meet land use policies. Such
development applications are also subject to review by the independent Halton
Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee (EEAC), who may make
recommendations to mitigate environmental impact by the proposed development.
2
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 1.1 – Burlington Environmentally Sensitive Areas
3
Figure 1.2 – Unique Features and Biota of Environmentally Sensitive Areas
ESA 1 Clappison Escarpment Woods
Area Halton: 101 ha
Hamilton: 100 ha
Features
♦
Niagara escarpment
♦
Provincial earth science ANSI
♦
Regional life science ANSI
♦
Private and public ownership
Diversity
♦
428 vascular plant species
♦
45 nesting bird species
♦
11 common mammalian species
♦
9 reptile or amphibian species
♦
17 insect species
ESA 2 Bridgeview Valley
Area 70 ha
Features
♦
Private ownership
Diversity
♦
♦
28 bird species
♦
5 forest community types
♦
3 fish species
♦
3 mammal species
♦
16 insect species
Unique Animal & Plant Species
Carolinian plants
Pignut Hickory, Sassafras, American
Columbo
Rare plants
Yellow Mandarin, Poke Milkweed,
Eastern Flowering Dogwood,
Chinquapin Oak, Black Oak, Rueanemone
Carolinian plants
American Chestnut, Pignut Hickory,
Downy False Glove, American
Columbo, Red Mulberry, Wild Yam,
Sassafras
Rare plants
Drooping Sedge, Yellow Mandarin,
Sundrop, Perfoliate Bellwort, Panicled
Hawkweed
Rare birds
Orchard Oriole, Brewster’s Warbler,
Magnolia Warbler
Rare butterflies
Mottled Dustywing, Silvery
Checkered Spot
4
Figure 1.2 (cont.) – Unique Features and Biota of Environmentally Sensitive Areas
ESA 3 Grindstone Creek Valley
Area: Halton: 340 ha
Hamilton: 28 ha
Features
♦
Provincial life science ANSI
♦
♦
Hendrie Valley – Lambs Hollow
provincially significant wetland
♦
Public (65%) & private (35%) ownership
Diversity
♦
♦
65 bird species
♦
48 fish species
♦
♦
♦
53 insect species
Carolinian plants
Schreiber’s Aster, American Chestnut,
Sassafras
Rare plants
Yellow Mandarin
Rare birds
Cerulean Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat,
Purple Finch, Barred Owl
ESA 4 Sassafras Woods
Area: 147 ha
Features
♦
Carolinian Canada site
♦
♦
Interior forest habitat
♦
Private ownership
Diversity
♦
♦
65 bird species
♦
19 mammalian species
♦
♦
8 fish species
♦
18 insect species
Carolinian plants
American Chestnut, American Columbo,
Sassafras, Summer Grape, Forked Panic
Grass, Sharp-leaved Goldenrod, Eastern
Bellwort, Rue-anemone, Large-bracketed
Tick-trefoil, Jumpseed, Hairy buttercup
Rare plants
Drooping Sedge, Yellow Mandarin
Rare birds
Cerulean Warbler, Redheaded
Woodpecker, Tufted Titmouse, Orchard
Oriole, Red-bellied Woodpecker
Rare herpetiles
Northern Ringneck Snake, Jefferson &
Blue-spotted Salamander Complex
5
Figure 1.2 (cont.) - Unique Features and Biota of Environmentally Sensitive Areas
ESA 5 Waterdown Escarpment Woods
Area: Halton: 83 ha
Hamilton: 153 ha
Features
♦
♦
♦
♦
Mainly private, some MBS holdings
Diversity
♦
♦
89 nesting bird species
♦
♦
♦
27 insect species
ESA 6 Nelson Escarpment Woods
Area: 254 ha
Features
♦
Regional life science and earth
science ANSI
♦
Private ownership
Diversity
♦
♦
67 bird species
♦
14 reptile and amphibian species
♦
3 mammalian species
♦
2 fish species
♦
15 insect species
Rare plants
Yellow Mandarin
Rare birds
Henslow Sparrow
Rare herpetile
Five-lined Skink
Carolinian plants
Pignut Hickory, Red Mulberry,
Sassafras.
Rare plants
Yellow Mandarin, Ginseng, Looseflowering Sedge, Gleaming
Hawthorn, Dissona Hawthorn,
Burning Bush, Green Violet
Rare birds
Orchard Oriole, Carolina Wren,
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Rare herpetile
Jefferson Salamander
6
ESA 7 Lake Medad and Medad Valley
Area: Halton: 255 ha
Hamilton: 200 ha
Features
♦
Provincial earth and life science ANSI
♦
Provincial wetland
♦
Lake Medad provincially significant
wetland complex
♦
Headwaters of Grindstone Creek
♦
♦
Privately owned
Diversity
♦
♦
85 bird species
♦
♦
♦
13 fish species
♦
46 insect species
Rare plants
Yellow Mandarin, Indian Physic
(historically - likely extinct)
Rare birds
Cooper’s Hawk, Caspian Tern
(migrant)
Rare insect
West Virginia White butterfly
ESA 8 Mount Nemo Escarpment Woods
Area: 257 ha
Features
♦
♦
Regional earth science ANSI
♦
Wetland (locally significant)
♦
Public (65%) & private (35%) ownership
Diversity
♦
♦
77 nesting bird including
♦
♦
♦
38 insect species
Carolinian plants
American Chestnut
Rare plants
Hart’s-tongue Fern, Drooping Sedge,
Yellow Mandarin, Golden-fruited
Hawthorn, Overlooked Dropseed
Rare mosses
T. alleghaniese and P. confervoides
Rare bird
Orchard Oriole
Rare mammals
Eastern Pipistrelle bat
Rare herpetile
Jefferson Salamander
7
ESA 9 Lowville-Bronte Creek Escarpment
Valley
Area Halton: 851 ha
Hamilton: 114 ha
Features
♦
♦
♦
Private ownership
Diversity
♦
♦
76 bird species
♦
♦
♦
20 fish species
♦
21 insect species
Unique Animal& Plant Species
Rare plant
Drooping Sedge
Rare bird
Louisiana Waterthrush
Rare herpetiles
Wood Turtle, Northern Ring-neck Snake,
Eastern Spiny Softshell Turtle
Rare fish
Silver Shiner
Rare Insect
West Virginia White butterfly
8
ESA 10 Bronte Creek Valley
Area: 479 ha
Features
♦
The Bronte Creek Marsh (locally
significant wetland)
♦
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
♦
Public and private ownership
Diversity
♦
♦
169 bird species
♦
♦
♦
45 fish species
♦
120 insect species
Rare plants
Slender Muhly, Virginia Yellow Flax,
Ginseng
Birds
A link in migratory route for waterfowl
and raptors
Rare herpetile
Wood turtle
Rare insect
Katydid
Fish
Migratory route for Coho Salmon,
Chinook Salmon and Rainbow trout.
Spawning area for Smallmouth Bass
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 1.2 (cont.) – Unique Features and Biota of Environmentally Sensitive Areas
ESA 46 Burlington Beach
Area 11 ha
Features
♦
♦
Largest baymouth bar landform in Ontario
Active dune processes (Aeolian) and
active longshore lacustrine processes
Diversity
♦
♦
11 butterfly species
♦
18 bird species
♦
1 mammalian species
Unique Animal& Plant Species
Rare Plants
American Bulrush, Baltic Rush, Bur
Cucumber, Gromwell, Purple Love Grass,
Schweinitz's Cyperus, Sea-rocket,
Seaside Spurge, Sedge, Sleepy Catchfly,
Smooth Scouring-rush, Straw-colored
Cyperus, Wild Germander,
Rare Insect
Common Sootywing butterfly; Monarch
butterfly
9
Issue: Cootes to Escarpment Land Strategy and Park
System
Why it was Measured
This strategy, endorsed by Burlington City Council in January 2010, outlines the vision
for the conservation and land management of what will be a protected and connected
public park area known as the Cootes to Escarpment Park System. The Cootes to
Escarpment Park System Strategy study area covers approximately 3,440 hectares
(8,500 acres) of public and private land, of which a large part is within and adjacent to
the Niagara Escarpment Plan Area as well as the Greenbelt Plan.
The project partners include the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG), Hamilton Conservation
Authority, Conservation Halton, City of Hamilton, City of Burlington, Region of Halton,
Bruce Trail Conservancy, Hamilton Naturalists’ Club and Hamilton Harbour Remedial
Action Plan. These landowners and stakeholders recognize the lands they own or
manage form the backbone of natural areas in an area experiencing population growth
and urban development. A coordinated effort to steward these lands and natural
systems is necessary to ensure their protection.
What was Measured
The Cootes to Escarpment Park System straddles the boundary of the City of Hamilton
and the City of Burlington. In total there are 27 individual properties comprising 1,560
hectares (3,855 acres) owned by stakeholders within the park system. The main features
include a 10-kilometre portion of the Niagara Escarpment and the lands and waters
associated with Cootes Paradise Marsh and Grindstone Creek.
There are seven main natural areas associated with the Niagara Escarpment and
Cootes Paradise that have been identified as ESAs at the local level: Cootes Paradise
Marsh, Borer’s Falls-Rock Chapel, Clappison Escarpment Woods, Grindstone Creek
Escarpment Valley, Waterdown Escarpment Woods, Sassafras Woods and Bridgeview
Valley. All, except for Bridgeview Valley, are classified by the province as Life Science
Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI).
What was Found
The strategy identifies a future park system where natural areas will be protected and
biodiversity can continue to the extent possible within this developed region of southern
Ontario. It is expected that permanent protection will primarily be achieved through
public ownership. The strategy also outlines a collective land management direction for
protecting the health of the ecosystem as well as recreation and education opportunities.
The strategy calls for a new corporate body to oversee implementation composed of the
project partners mentioned above, and any other interest group, such as Catholic
Cemeteries, individual landowners, business corporations, and upper levels of
government. This cooperative management organization would name themselves as the
Cootes to Escarpment Park System Management Network.
The strategy outlines a series of suggested policies, actions, and possible future
directions for the management of current public parklands and to secure the park
system. In the first six years, key actions for the management network include
10
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV establishing funding and staffing to carry out foundation activities, such as developing a
land securement strategy, a communications plan and a series of more detailed
management plans for sections of the Cootes to Escarpment Park System. The
subsequent five years will see implementation of management plans and actions to bring
the Cootes to Escarpment Park System to life.
What is Happening
A number of staff from the City of Burlington will be involved with the management
network and will bring periodic reports to council as the strategy moves forward over the
next number of years. It is possible that these reports may also ask for monetary funding
to assist in reaching the objectives listed above.
Issue: Urban Forest
Why it was Measured
In 2010, the city approved a 20-year Urban Forest Management Plan that includes four
five-year management plans (2011 to 2030). Each five-year plan confirms the priority
actions and timing for recommendations. The urban forest not only includes trees
planted by the city along streets, but also trees in parks and along creeks and trees on
private property.
The urban forest provides many benefits including: filtering air pollutants and
particulates; energy conservation; storm-water attenuation; noise buffering; provision of
wildlife habitat; reducing the heat island effect; increased property value; improved
aesthetics; and psychological well being.
What was Measured
The Urban Forest Management Plan estimates that Burlington has a 23% tree canopy
cover, with the majority of that being in the rural areas. Of that number,15% is in natural
wooded areas, and the remaining 8% can be found along streets, parks, and other open
spaces. The city’s wooded natural areas cover over 3,800 hectares, with 3,150 hectares
in the rural area. Most of these wooded areas are protected and designated as
Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs).
The Urban Forest Management Plan reports an inventory of 52,000 street trees found in
the urban area. The majority are young or middle-aged, and non-native. Nearly one-fifth
of the street trees are in conflict with utility lines or other infrastructure. There is little
diversity with street trees as at least half are made up of Norway maple (25%), Ash
(13%) and Honey locust (12%).
What was Found
Urban trees exist in a difficult environment. The lack of growing space above and below
ground, contaminated and compacted soils, de-icing salt, and the physical damage
caused by trenching, lawn mowers, and cars, are but a few of the factors that prevent
most urban trees from reaching their potential.
Many urban forests have an over abundance of common species. This narrow genetic
base leaves our urban forests vulnerable to insects and disease infestations. Dutch elm
11
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV disease is a good example. The loss of elms in many North American cities was the
crisis that first raised public awareness of the urban forest. Presently the largest threats
are the Emerald Ash Borer and Gypsy Moths.
The purpose of the plan is to increase urban forest management effectiveness and
efficiency, improve tree health and diversity, minimize risks to the public, and maximize
the benefits provided by a healthy and sustainable urban forest.
This plan identifies opportunities on both public and private lands, in urban and rural
Burlington, and focuses on five key areas:
1. Management and Implementation
2. Community Engagement and Stewardship
3. Protection and Preservation
4. Replenishment and Enhancement
5. Tree Health and Risk Management
Conclusion
As climate change has become a major concern for the world, it is critical that we
preserve, restore and enhance what remains of our natural heritage. This is particularly
true of interior forest habitats, which among other ecological functions, act as a ‘carbon
sink’ by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as part of the process of
photosynthesis. Also it is important that the urban forest remains strong and healthy.
The Cootes to Escarpment Land Strategy and Park System is an ambitious initiative that
will bring together various levels of government, agencies, utilities, and non-government
organizations with the common goal to preserve and expand our natural areas and
educate the public on the value of these lands.
Recommendations:
1. That the city continue to support the Cootes to Escarpment Land Strategy and Park
System by directing staff to work with partner agencies and landowners.
2. That the city support the urban forest and implement the Urban Forest Management
Plan.
12
Chapter 2: Land Use Planning
Introduction
Burlington has changed over the years from a suburban community with a small
downtown and shopping malls, to a city with a vibrant downtown and intensified
neighbourhoods. The demographics of Burlington have also changed; residents have
aged and in percentage terms, there are fewer children.
Burlington originally settled along the lakefront and over the years urban development
has spread northwards. New subdivisions are now being built north of Hwy 5, and the
urban boundary is generally along Hwy 5 west of Guelph Line and Hwy 407 eastwards.
All of the lands north of the urban boundary are affected by the new provincial Greenbelt
Plan, which prohibits urban development. The boundaries of the Greenbelt Plan are
shown in Figure 3.4 in the next chapter.
The “Places to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe” was approved by
the Province of Ontario in 2006 and this plan introduced new rules for urban
development in the Golden Horseshoe area. The Growth Plan requires municipalities to
grow with compact urban development, which include the following measures:
•
•
•
•
Direct growth to built-up areas and require intensification of the built-up areas
o 40% of future growth to be in intensification areas
o Meet density targets in Urban Growth Centres
Meet growth targets for population and employment for 2011, 2021 and 2031
Preserve employment areas for future economic opportunities
Conserve natural heritage systems and prime agricultural areas
The City of Burlington has amended its Official Plan to meet these Growth Plan
requirements, and this chapter contains sections on intensification and employment
lands where the measures are discussed.
Issue: Demographics
Why it was Measured
The number of residents and their present and future needs for housing, employment,
goods and services, transportation and recreation are the determining factors for land
use designations.
The type of accommodation desired by residents of a city is determined by a variety of
factors, among them age, family size and income. Young individuals, new Canadians,
couples and families may seek high density (apartment) housing, as it is usually less
expensive and often available on a rental rather than an ownership basis. As family size
or income increase, lower density (town homes or detached houses) is often preferred.
Seniors, tiring of or unable to continue with home maintenance may choose to move
from low density housing into medium or high-density housing. Knowledge of the
present and future demographic trends of a community helps to determine the types of
housing that will be needed in the future.
13
The main data source for this chapter is the 2006 Statistics Canada census data. A
comprehensive analysis of the census data was undertaken by Community Development
Halton in a publication entitled “A Social Profile of Burlington”. The chapter in this report
will contain the main elements of demographics, and for those readers interested in
more detail, they should consult the Community Development Halton report.
What was Measured
Population statistics from the 2006 Census of Canada were collected and were
supplemented with information on projections from the “Best Planning Estimates of
Population, Occupied Dwelling Units and Employment 2007 to 2021” from the Region of
Halton, April 2007.
What was Found
In 2006, Burlington had a population of 164,415 according to census data from Statistics
Canada. The city’s estimate for 2010 is 175,000. Population growth from 1971 to 2006
is shown in the graph in Figure 2.1, with projections to 2021. The population almost
doubled between 1971 and 2006, growing from 86,125 in 1971 to 164,415 in 2006. The
estimated population for 2011 is 175,800.
Figure 2.1: Population Growth in Burlington 1971 to 2021
The range of age groups has changed in Burlington through time. Generally the median
age of residents has been increasing, from 36.7 in 1996 to 40.3 in 2006. Burlington has
the highest proportion of older residents in Halton; people aged over 65 make up 15.4%
of the population of Burlington and 12.5% of the population of Halton. Similarly, people
aged over 75 are 7.5% of the population in Burlington and 5.9% in Halton. Figure 2.2
on the next page shows that each age group in Burlington has been increasing between
1996 and 2006, with the exception of the 0 – 4 year and the 20 – 24 year age groups,
which have not grown significantly. The age groups with the largest increases are the
adult age groups, 25 – 54, 55 – 64 and seniors 75+.
14
Figure 2.2: Age groups in Burlington 1996 to 2006
80000
70000
60000
50000
1996
40000
2001
2006
30000
20000
10000
0
0-4
5 14
15 - 19
20 - 24
25 - 54
55 - 64
65 - 74
75 +
What is Happening
The city has grown gradually northwards over the years but the northern boundary for
urban development is now fixed, so further expansion northwards will not happen. This
is because the northern boundary of the city is the Greenbelt and urban development is
not permitted in the Greenbelt. Once the last greenfield area is developed, the Alton
area, which is located north of Dundas Street and west of Appleby Line, development in
the city will become all infill and intensification. The amount of intensification that has
occurred in the last three years is described further on in this chapter.
Issue: Housing
Why it was Measured
As indicated in the population section, different ages and lifestyles have a preference for
different types of housing. As well, housing types have different environmental impacts.
Low density (detached homes) provides a personal living space, buffer from one’s
neighbours and personal green space. However, the number of citizens who can be
accommodated in a development area is less, so that more land is needed to support a
given population. Also, servicing costs on a per dwelling basis are greater and there is
increased dependence on the automobile as distances from commercial and
recreational services are often greater.
Medium and high density areas permit a greater population in a given area and, when
well designed, create liveable urban environments. Fewer vehicles per household may
be needed as neighbourhood services will be within walking distance or close to transit
15
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV services. Sustainable development requires a mix of housing types and neighbourhood
design to meet the above considerations as equitably as possible.
What was Measured
Data on the number of dwelling units classified as low, medium and high density was
obtained in five year intervals from 1981 to 2001 from Statistics Canada census data.
Projections through 2021, also at five-year intervals, are from “Best Planning Estimates”
Region of Halton, 2007. It should be noted that the definitions of medium and high
density housing have changed from census to census, but the changes do not affect the
overall conclusions. Currently, townhouses and apartment buildings below five stories
are considered to be medium density, and apartment buildings at or above five stories
are considered high density. Also the projections from the Best Planning Estimates do
not contain revised projections to take account of the provincial Growth Plan policies, so
future projections will likely show a greater trend to higher density housing.
What was Found
The table below shows that the percentage of housing units of each type has been
relatively constant over the last twenty-five years (1981 – 2006).
Table 2.1 Burlington Housing Units by Type
Year
1981
1986
1991
1996
2001
2006
2011*
2016*
2021*
Low Density
Actual
22,605
24,200
27,935
29,230
34,645
37,390
39,395
40,220
40,560
% Total
59.9
60.3
60.4
58.5
60.4
59.2
57.8
56.3
55.1
Medium Density
Actual
7,025
7,170
8,200
8,840
9,424
11,585
13,020
14,145
14,510
% Total
18.6
17.9
17.7
17.7
16.5
18.3
19.1
19.8
19.7
High Density
Actual
8,250
8,745
10,126
11,875
13,250
14,185
15,745
17,045
18,490
% Total
21.8
21.8
21.9
23.7
23.1
22.5
23.1
23.9
25.2
Source: Past data from Statistics Canada Census Data,
* Projected data from Halton Best Planning Estimates, 2007
Low density units have made up 60% of the total, medium density from 16 to 18%, and
high density 21 to 23%. The percentages are expected to change in the future, with low
density dropping from 60% to 55%, medium density increasing to almost 20% and
apartment/high density increasing to 25%. The projections in the table were prepared in
2009 and were presented in planning department report no: PB-25/09.
The data is shown in two graphs on the next page to illustrate that although the overall
amounts of housing of each type in Burlington are increasing, there are identifiable shifts
in the percentage mix of housing.
16
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 2.3: Burlington Housing Units by Type
45000
40000
35000
30000
low density
25000
medium density
20000
high density
15000
10000
5000
0
1981
1986
1991
1996
2001
2006
2011
2016
2021
Figure 2.4: Burlington Housing Units by Percentage
70
60
50
low density
40
medium density
30
high density
20
10
0
1981
1986
1991
1996
2001
2006
2011
2016
2021
What is Happening
The overall mix of housing in Burlington is changing from predominantly low density to
an increasing percentage of medium and higher density housing. As much of the new
higher density housing is within or close to mixed-use areas, this change will assist in
making Burlington a more sustainable and healthy community as more residents will be
within walking distance of shopping, recreation and leisure activities.
17
Issue: Intensification
Why it was Measured
A key focus of the provincial Growth Plan is intensification and Burlington has introduced
planning policies in the new Official Plan to encourage an increase in intensification
within the city. Intensification will occur in the downtown Urban Growth Centre (UGC),
along corridors such as Fairview Street and Plains Road, around GO Transit stations,
and within low density areas.
What was Measured
The previous section on housing looked at the increase in housing units built in the city,
and commented on the trend to higher densities. This section will measure the
intensification as defined in the Growth Plan. The Growth Plan requires that downtown
Burlington achieve a density of 200 residents and jobs per hectare by the year 2031, and
that 40% of growth be within the built-up area (note – the 40% is a requirement for
regional municipalities, not local municipalities, so is a requirement for Halton Region not
for Burlington).
What was Found
In 2006 work was undertaken by the planning department to define the boundaries of the
Urban Growth Centre (UGC) in downtown Burlington. The boundaries of the UGC and
the intensification corridors are shown in the map in Figure 2.5 overleaf. The planning
department estimated that there were 142 persons and jobs per hectare in 2006 in the
UGC (report PL 93/06). This number can be monitored over the years to determine how
well Burlington is achieving the Growth Plan target of 200 persons and jobs per hectare.
In addition, the number of housing units built in the UGC and the intensification corridors
can be measured over the years to determine whether the targets are being met.
In 2008 the planning department undertook further work on intensification targets. In
report PL 1/08 targets were identified for the various types of intensification that are
expected in Burlington. Table 2.2 shows these targets – it shows that over the period
from 2006 to 2031, there will be a population increase of 16,000 on greenfield sites and
an increase of 17,750 on intensification sites. With these targets, Burlington will be able
to meet the Growth Plan targets.
18
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 2.5: Urban Growth Centre and Intensification Areas
19
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 2.2: Intensification Growth Summary
Area
(ha)
Units
Persons/
Unit
Population
Employment
Activity
Rate
0.53
1. Existing 2006
-
63,160
2.6
164,415
87,000
2. Development Applications &
Greenfield Development
-
6,400
2.5
16,000
20,000
Urban Growth Centre
115
2,200
1.7
3,750
3,000
Urban Growth Corridor
Arterial Cores &
Regional Mall
Low Density Infill
355
3,750
2.0
7,500
1,000
80
1,750
1.7
3,000
-
-
335
3.0
1,000
-
-
1,665
1.5
2,500
-
9,700
1.8
17,750
4,000
550
16,100
2.1
33,750
24,000
550
79,260
2.5
198,165
111,000
3. Proposed Intensification:
Accessory Units
Intensification Sub Total:
4. Total Growth Between 20062031 (2 + 3)
5. 2031 Growth Forecast (1 + 4)
0.56
Source: Planning Department report PL 1/09
To determine the progress that is being made on the intensification targets, the number
of housing units built between 2006 and 2009 was determined from the planning
department’s records. It was found that 3,499 housing units were built between 2006
and 2009, and they were made up of 1,307 units (37%) in intensification areas, 450
(13%) in greenfield areas and 1,742 (50%) outside the built boundary. (Note: these
units were in the new community of Alton which is north of Hwy 5. Burlington considers
the Alton community to be part of the urban area but under the definitions in the Growth
Plan, it is considered to be outside the built boundary). The breakdown of intensification
units is shown in Table 2.3.
Table 2.3: Housing Growth in Intensification Areas 2006 - 2009
Urban Growth Centre
Urban Growth Corridor
Total
Townhouses Apartments
0
189
483
635
483
824
Total
189
1,118
1,307
%
14
86
100
The Alton community is the last new residential area in Burlington and accounts for half
of the housing growth at the present time. Growth has occurred in the intensification
areas in the last three years and accounted for 37% of total growth. The Growth Plan
requires that 40% of growth occur in intensification areas, starting after the year 2015, so
Burlington is well on its way to reaching the Growth Plan targets. As the Alton
community builds out, there will be less and less development in greenfield areas. Table
2.5 shows that 86% of the intensification growth was within Urban Growth Corridors. To
meet the targets as shown in Table 2.2, there will need to be more growth in the
Downtown UGC.
20
What is Happening
The Burlington Official Plan has designated lands in accordance with the directions in
the Growth Plan for intensification. So far several development application have come
forward to take advantage of increased densities. Many aspects of sustainability can be
incorporated into buildings of higher density including green roofs, access to transit,
dealing with rainfall on-site and streetscape elements. Some of these issues are dealt
with in Chapter 11 on Sustainable Buildings. The site plan process provides an
opportunity to assess the urban environment around the site of an infill development
application and ensure that sustainable site and/or building measures are incorporated
where possible.
Issue: Employment Lands
Why was it Measured
One attribute of a sustainable community is that it provides live/work opportunities for its
citizens through a balance of residential and commercial/industrial lands within the urban
planning envelope. It further seeks to integrate employment, retail and residential lands
so that residents have opportunities to walk to neighbourhood commercial centres and
perhaps to their place of employment as well.
What was Measured
The ratio of employment opportunities for the population was measured to determine
whether employment opportunities were increasing or decreasing.
What was Found
The population and employment opportunities are shown in Table 2.4.
Table 2.4: Employment to Population Ratio Data and Projections
136,976
139,031
141,912
144,667
147,891
150,836
163,800
Employment
Total
64,490
66,830
69,030
71,700
74,510
77,130
88,300
Employment To
Population Ratio
0.471
0.481
0.486
0.496
0.504
0.511
0.537
184,500
106,390
0.577
Year
Population
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2006
Projection
2021
Source: Statistics Canada Census data
Projections from Halton Best Planning Estimates, 2007
21
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Data was collected for 1996 to 2006, with a projection to 2021, as shown in Table 2.7 on
the previous page. It was found that the ratio has increased over the years from 0.47 to
nearly 0.54 in 2006, showing that more job opportunities are becoming available for local
residents. Projections of the ratio indicate a further rise to 0.58 by 2021.
The lands identified as Mixed Use in the new Official Plan provide locations where
employment, shopping and residential uses will be developed. The main features that
distinguish these areas from other locations are that employment, shopping and
residential land uses will be integrated in a compact urban form, at higher development
intensities and will be pedestrian-oriented and highly accessible to public transit.
What is Happening
The Burlington Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) has developed a strategy
for employment growth to the year 2019. BEDC expects that employment growth will be
faster than population growth over the next ten years, which will improve the
employment to population ratio, thereby providing additional job opportunities for
residents.
Issue: Parks and Open Space
Why it was Measured
Green space is a crucial component of any community as it provides opportunities for
active and passive recreation pursuits as well as habitats for a variety of plant and
animal species. Previous State of the Environment Reports have measured the amount
of parkland by neighbourhood, but this measurement has not resulted in any firm
conclusions as residents use a variety of parks and open space, not just those in their
immediate neighbourhood. It was therefore decided not to continue the measurement of
parks by neighbourhood or planning district.
What was Measured
The total amount of parks and open space was measured.
What was Found
The city in 2010 has a total of 117 parks, covering 1468.11 ha. In reviewing this data, it
should be remembered that this does not constitute all of the green space in Burlington
but only those areas designated as city open space. Other green space can be found in
school properties, multi-purpose pathways, the Royal Botanical Gardens, Conservation
Halton lands and private lands with public access, such as the Bruce Trail lands.
Issue: Sustainability Indicators
Why it was Measured
In order to assess whether the communities in Burlington are sustainable, we looked for
a measure of sustainability. There are many attributes that might serve as indicators of
a healthy community. The selection process of indicators was governed by the attributes
of a healthy community as outlined in the Executive Summary to “Sustainable Halton –
Healthy Community Principles – May 2007”, and by attributes for which reliable data was
22
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV available on a regular basis, so that changes and trends may be determined.
indictors are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The
Population size and changes
Population demographics
Types of available housing
Housing unit rental and ownership
Income allocated to housing
Public transit/walking access to community facilities
Public Parks – numbers and area
Schools – numbers, enrolments, future projections
What was Measured
The data for measuring sustainability comes from two different sources: the 2006
Census and the 2009/10 Halton Youth Survey. The Halton Youth Survey is a regionwide survey conducted on behalf of the ‘Our Kids Network’ and measures a variety of
topics related to school and community involvement. All students in Grades 7 and 10 in
the Halton District School Board and the Halton Catholic District School Board were
invited to complete the survey. All eligible schools participated in the 2009/10 survey,
and 85% of Grade 7 students and 76% of Grade 10 students completed surveys.
Response rates for Burlington specifically are not available.
What was Found
Demographics and housing were discussed in the first part of this chapter, so are not
repeated here. From the statistics reviewed we found the following for Burlington in
terms of sustainability:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
18% of Burlington homeowners in 2006 were spending more than 30% of total
income on housing costs, up from 15% in 2001. The provincial average was 21%,
up from 17% in 2001.
42% of Burlington tenants in 2006 were spending more than 30% of total income on
housing costs, up from 40% in 2001. The provincial average was 44%, up from 42%
in 2001.
The percentage of the working population in Burlington using public transit to get to
work is 8%. The Ontario average is 13%, up from 9% in 2001, so Burlington is below
the provincial average.
33% of Burlington students in both grades 7 and 10 reported walking or biking to
school five days a week and 62% of grade 7 students and 55% of grade 10 students
reported walking or biking to school at least one day a week.
Most youth responded that they can walk to a park – 93% to 95% for both grade 7
and grade 10 students in both 2006 and in 2009/10.
In 2006 85% of grade 7 students indicated that they could walk to their school, but in
2009/10 this percentage had fallen to 77%. For grade 10s 62% said they were in
walking distance of school in both time periods.
56% of grade 7 youth responded that they could walk to a library in 2006 and 52% in
2009/10. For grade 10s the percentage was similar in both time periods 61% and
62% respectively. The Burlington Public Library operates 6 branches of varying sizes
located throughout the community including one branch in the rural area in Kilbride.
23
Issue: School Infrastructure and Enrolment
Why was it Measured
Modern and sustainable educational facilities are a valuable asset to a healthy
community. Education facilities provide a centre for learning and a social focal point for
the community. The surrounding schoolyard provides recreational facilities and valuable
community green space.
What was Measured
An inventory of school infrastructure in each of Burlington’s communities was measured
along with their current and future enrolment trends. Schools were divided into six
communities to assist in analyzing the school data. The communities were:
Community
Neighbourhoods
2006
Included
Population
Boundaries
West of former railway line from
West Lakeshore/ Maple to Plains Rd.;
Burlington West of Brant St (North of Plains Rd);
South of City Boundary
Aldershot,
Tyandaga,
W part of Brant
32,319
South Former railway line from
Central Lakeshore/Maple to Plains Rd;
Burlington Walkers Line; Lake Ontario; QEW.
E part of Brant,
Freeman,
Roseland
29,353
South East Walkers Line; Burloak Drive; Lake
Burlington Ontario; QEW
Shoreacres,
Appleby
29,007
North West Brant St.; Guelph Line; QEW;
Burlington Dundas Street (Regional Road 5)
Brant Hills,
Mountainview
20,949
Guelph Line; Walkers Line; QEW;
North
Dundas Street; and all city lands
Central
north of the Urban Boundary (Dundas
Burlington
Street/Hwy 407)
Headon, Palmer,
Rural
North East Walkers Line; Eastern City Boundary;
Burlington QEW; Dundas St / Hwy 407
Tansley, Rose,
Uptown, Orchard,
Alton
24,634
28,001
What was Found
Burlington is a maturing city with an aging population, so the proportion of the population
that is school aged is declining. This decline is reflected in school enrolment. A report to
the Halton District School Board entitled Long Term Accommodation Plan 2009, projects
school enrolment for the period of 2009 to 2023. Data for Burlington’s District School
Board elementary school enrolment is provided in Figure 2.6 below.
24
Enrolment of school age children in elementary schools was at approximately 90 percent
of school capacity in 2009. Enrolment and utilization is expected to decline steadily to
about 75 percent of school capacity by 2023. The integration of junior/senior
kindergarten into the elementary school system will help the utilization of school capacity
until 2012. Even with JK/SK enrolment, capacity utilization is expected to decline
reaching about 80 percent by 2023.
Data provided in Figure 2.6 is for the Halton District School Board (HDSB) but similar
trends are expected for the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB). Moreover
trends seen in the elementary school system would be reflected in the high school
system, but at a later date.
An inventory of school infrastructure in each of Burlington’s communities is presented in
Table 2.5. This table includes data for the public (HDSB) and Catholic (HCDSB)
elementary and high school systems. Data includes the number of schools in each
community along with their capacity and 2009 enrolment. Two additional schools in
Aldershot, belonging to the French Language Catholic District School Board (FLCSB) as
well as the Conseil scolaire de district du Centre-Sud Ouest (CSDCCSO) are also
included in the inventory. Capacity data for these two was not available. There are a
number of private schools in Burlington, but their enrolment was not examined.
25
Table 2.5: Schools by Community in Burlington in 2009
Community
Aldershot
South
Central
Burlington
South East
Burlington
North West
Burlington
North
Central
Burlington
North East
Burlington
Rural
Board
Level
Number
HDSB
HDSB
HCDSB
FLCSB
CSDCSO
HDSB
HCDSB
HDSB
HCDSB
HDSB
HDSB
HCDSB
HDSB
HDSB
HCDSB
HDSB
HCDSB
HDSB
HCDSB
HCDSB
HDSB
HCDSB
HDSB
High
Elementary
Elementary
Elementary
Elementary
High
High
Elementary
Elementary
High
Elementary
Elementary
High
Elementary
Elementary
High
High
Elementary
Elementary
High
Elementary
Elementary
Elementary
1
4
1
1
1
1
1
6
2
2
4
3
1
5
2
1
1
3
2
1
4
3
1
School
capacity
651
1,454
483
660
957
2,763
708
2,679
2,045
1,082
1,347
2,109
1,027
639
1,146
1,198
918
1,329
2,128
1,450
310
Enrolment
501
1,130
358
275
152
660
1,018
1,897
742
2,664
1,666
938
1,265
1,961
864
758
1,318
1,284
847
597
2,786
1,502
276
Under
capacity
150
324
124
609
15
379
144
82
148
163
71
732
34
Over
capacity
61
34
119
172
86
658
52
-
HDSB
Halton District School Board
HCDSB Halton Catholic District School Board
FLCSB French Language Catholic District School Board
CSDCSO Conseil scolaire de district du Centre-Sud-Ouest
School enrolment was below capacity in most mature Burlington communities, notably
Aldershot, South Central, South East and North West Burlington. The only exceptions
were the HDSB and The HCDSB high schools in South Central Burlington along with the
HCDSB elementary schools in this community. Similarly the school in rural Burlington
had enrolment less than capacity. In contrast schools in the developing communities,
North Central and North East, have enrolments greater than school capacity. Surplus
capacity in the HCDSB high school in North East Burlington is an anomaly of
construction schedule rather than enrolment. This high school is expected to be at
capacity in the near future.
Projected trends in elementary school utilization are given in Table 2.6. This data is
summarized from the 2009 HDSB Long Term Accommodation Plan study as well as the
HCDSB 2008/2009 Long Term Capital Plan Submission. Within the HDSB and HCDSB,
the highest capacity is in the North East and South Central areas of Burlington.
Excluding rural Burlington, the lowest school capacities are in Aldershot and North
Central Burlington.
26
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 2.6: Trends in Elementary School Utilization in Burlington Communities
Community
1
2
3
4
Percent utilization in:
2015
2020
81%
75%
78%
79%
Board
Capacity
HCDSB
Aldershot
HDSB
South
HCDSB
Central
HDSB
Burlington
South East HCDSB
Burlington HDSB
North West HCDSB
Burlington HDSB
North
HCDSB
Central
HDSB
Burlington
North East HCDSB
Burlington HDSB
Rural HDSB
483
1,454
2010
86%
82%
708
2,763
103%
82%
103%
75%
96%
68%
95%
66%
1,0821
2,045
1,0272
2,155
90%
89%
83%
103%
107%
84%
85%
85%
101%
80%
107%
82%
100%
77%
105%
79%
918
1,198
91%
119%
82%
91%
107%
84%
106%
81%
1,4503
2,8184
310
123%
117%
90%
132%
123%
75%
123%
110%
68%
121%
100%
66%
2023
74%
80%
Proposed decline in capacity to 722 by 2013
Proposed decline in capacity to 486 by 2017
Proposed increase in capacity to 1542 by 2012
Proposed increase in capacity to 3522 by 2013
Future changes predict an increase in school capacity only in North East Burlington,
while the HCDSB suggests decreasing capacity in southeast and North West Burlington.
Within the HDSB, over the period 2010 to 2023, enrolment at or exceeding capacity is
expected only in North East Burlington, even with the building of increased school
capacity. With the exception of Rural and South Central communities, HDSB elementary
school utilization will decline reaching values of about 80 percent capacity by the year
2032.
South Central Burlington school utilization is expected to decline to two-thirds
capacity by 2023. Within the HCDSB, school capacity is expected to remain near school
capacity in all communities.
Although a neighbourhood school is highly desirable to a healthy community, the
operation of schools below capacity is unacceptable from a financial viewpoint. Because
of costs associated with the maintenance and upgrade of schools, school boards cannot
afford to operate schools below capacity. Moreover, the city cannot always be expected
to purchase these properties in order to preserve facilities and green space.
What is Happening
There is a need to address the issues of potential loss in school property, on a
community or city- wide basis. The case-by-case approach, such as experienced with
the Gary Allan school property on New Street caused considerable citizen concern on
the loss of open space. Local residents view schoolyards as part of their local park
system and loss of these parks is always resisted. Solutions to closing schools need to
include the impact on local residents and on the local park system. The city and the
school boards, in advance of any further school closures, could consider undertaking a
joint study of the problem.
27
Conclusion
Population Size and Demographics – the population of Burlington is aging, and has the
oldest age profile in Halton. As most of urban Burlington has now been built out, new
growth will be in intensification areas, and efforts must be made to ensure that the
intensification areas are appropriate for all age groups and, in particular, meet the need
of the aging population.
Housing – the data indicates a connection between availability of housing types and age
demographics of a community; with a maturing population preferring higher density and
greater rental availability. As residents age, they may find it necessary to relocate from
the newer communities to the older communities to find the housing they need.
Intensification – the city has brought its Official Plan into conformity with the Growth
Plan. The initial analysis of the first three years of conformity with the plan shows that
intensification is occurring. Building more housing units in the Urban Growth Centre and
in the intensification corridors will assist in creating a healthy community as the
intensification locations provide close proximity to work, shopping and recreation,
supporting a transit, pedestrian and cycling friendly community.
School Enrolments and Facilities – enrolments are currently slightly under capacity on a
city-wide basis but in several communities, especially in the south, they are well below
capacity. Furthermore, projections through 2023 indicate a decrease to about 80% of
capacity overall, with communities in the south dropping to 65%. There will be pressure
on both school boards to close some school facilities, resulting in a potential loss of
green space and community facilities. A study of the problem by the city and the school
boards, in advance of any further school closures, could help to address community
concerns.
Recommendation
That the city work with the two school boards to examine planned school closures to
ensure that, as much as possible, all school lands are preserved as public green space
and that, where appropriate, the school building is re-used.
28
Chapter 3: Rural Lands and Agriculture
Introduction
A balance of rural and urban space provides necessary diversity for the sustainability of
a community. Burlington is fortunate in that despite being within the densely populated
Greater Toronto Area (GTA), a significant portion of its lands are designated as rural.
Burlington’s last greenfield area, the Alton community, began construction in 2006.
In February 2005, the Province of Ontario passed the Greenbelt Act and released the
Greenbelt Plan. The Act established 1.8 million acres of protected land between
Niagara and Peterborough. The land is reserved for agricultural, natural heritage and
rural uses and contains some of Ontario’s best agricultural lands.
In Burlington, almost all of our rural and agriculture lands is either within the Niagara
Escarpment Plan or the Greenbelt area, or both plans. Agricultural land is an important
resource for Burlington, by producing local food while giving economic return to the
producer and related industries. A growing concern in Burlington is that there is not a
large enough economic return generated from farm operations to ensure the continued
viability of farming into the future.
Issue: Rural Lands for Agricultural Use
Why was it Measured
A significant component of Burlington’s rural area is its prime agriculture lands. This
resource provides a number of benefits that contribute towards sustainability, such as
access to fresh produce for residents and overall food security, carbon sinks to improve
air quality, green space for the benefit of all, potential habitat and linkages for wildlife,
and a highly productive economic base. Although the designation of the rural lands of
Burlington as part of the Greenbelt Area removes the possibility of large scale
residential, commercial or industrial development, changes may still occur in other ways
(e.g. infrastructure development and aggregate operations). It is important to know what
changes are taking place and how they affect the sustainability of agriculture in
Burlington.
What was Measured
Farm Ownership
Farmers owning their farms generally indicates a more stable agricultural community, as
generally speaking, farmers who are renting are less inclined to make the capital
improvements required to maintain land, particularly if the rental is short term and/or
informal. Furthermore, crop types tend to be limited to those requiring only short-term
investments. This often results in rental lands not being used to their full potential or for
their most productive use, leading to a deterioration of the agricultural land base. This
situation then provides justification to take the land out of the agricultural land use
designation, which not only reduces the overall agricultural land base, but can fragment
29
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV an agricultural area leading to a loss of services which makes farming even more difficult
and vulnerable.
Farm Type
Proximity to a highly urban area influences the type of farm. Farm type as an indicator
can help provide insight into the diversity of the farm community and also the types of
production that can exist in the near urban environment.
Farm Size (and Total Acres)
While smaller farms can function well and be highly productive, larger parcels are
preferable to obtain economy of scale, long term profitability, and flexibility.
Farm Economics
Farm income as an indicator of sustainability is clear – if a business is not economically
viable, it will discontinue its operations over time. Gross farm receipts and the ratio of
costs to revenues are also used to measure the ongoing state of economic sustainability
for agriculture in Burlington. In addition, the number of registered farm businesses was
also used as an indicator. While a decline may indicate decreasing sustainability of the
industry, it must be read in conjunction with other factors, such as farm size, as it may
also point towards consolidation trends rather than loss of farmland.
Characteristics of Farm Operators
There has been an ongoing concern that younger generations are leaving farms to
pursue other lines of work, creating a gap in the next generation required to take over
the business. As agriculture becomes less sustainable and income drops, farmers may
be forced to supplement their income with off farm income. Agricultural businesses
require operators or farmers to run them. Therefore, in association with economic data,
indicators that track the average age and number of hours worked both on and off the
farm can provide insight into whether the operators are likely to continue farming.
What was Found
Farm Ownership
As can be seen from Table 3.1 there has been a continued decrease in farmland in
Burlington between 1996 and 2006, from 5,046 to 4,306 hectares.
Table 3.1: Area Farmed by Owners and Tenants in Burlington 1996-2006
Year
Total Area
Farmed (ha)
1996
2001
2006
5,046
4,904
4,306
Area farmed by owners
Area farmed by tenants
Area (ha)
3,078
2,939
N/A
Area (ha)
1,968
1,965
N/A
Percentage
61%
60%
N/A
Source: Statistics Canada 1996, 2001, 2006
30
Percentage
39%
40%
N/A
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The total area farmed in Burlington has decreased by 14.7% since 1996. The
breakdown of farms by owners and tenants was not available (N/A) from the 2006
census.
Types of Farms
Figure 3.1 showed that there have been considerable changes in emphasis on what is
farmed over time. The ‘Miscellaneous Specialty’ category continues to experience
growth - this category includes such areas as horse farms, greenhouse operations,
nurseries and sod farms, Christmas trees and maple syrup. These operations cater
directly to the consumer and tend to operate profitably using smaller parcels of land.
While some would argue that the activities included in this category do not consist of
traditional agricultural activities in terms of food production, these uses offer the farmer
the opportunity to supplement their primary agricultural operations and generate
additional income for the farm.
Source: 2006, 2001, 1996 Statistics Canada, Census of Agriculture
Farm Size
Table 3.2 overleaf shows that the number of farms decreased by 30% from 1996 to 2006
and the average farm size increased by 22.7% from 110 to 135 acres. This indicates a
trend towards the amalgamation of farming operations in Burlington where fewer
operators are farming larger parcels of agriculture land.
In comparison, the average size of a farm in Ontario was 233 acres and in the Greater
Toronto Area was 183 acres (Statistics Canada 2006 Census). Burlington farms are
considerably smaller than farms in Ontario and the GTA. Larger farms usually contain
traditional livestock and cash crop operations, and smaller farms usually contain
specialty crops. The smaller farm size in Burlington is due to the type of farms present –
31
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV typically near-urban operations that mainly contain greenhouses, floriculture, nursery,
vegetable, fruit, sheep and goats.
Table 3.2: Farm size (acres) in Burlington 1996-2006
Year
Under
10
1069
70129
130179
180239
240399
400569
560759
7601119
11201599
Total
farms
1996
2001
2006
22
12
9
48
42
34
15
16
15
9
5
5
5
5
2
7
9
8
4
2
2
0
1
1
2
2
2
1
1
1
113
95
79
Average
farm
size
110
128
135
Farm Economics
Gross farm receipts are one of the tools that can be used to measure the productivity of
a farm. In Tables 3.3 and 3.4, it can be seen that farms in Burlington are highly
productive and have one of the highest gross farm receipts and gross farm receipts per
hectare in the GTA and are well above the provincial average of $1,920 per hectare.
Although gross farm receipts are high, so are costs and as indicated in Table 3.4,
farmers in Burlington faced net losses of almost $228,000 in 1996. In 2001, while gross
farm receipts dropped by 29% from 1996, costs dropped by 32% and net revenue
returned bringing a net profit of $1,227,000. In 2006, gross farm receipts increased by
28% from 2001, costs increased by 14.7%, which resulted in net revenue of $4,573,401.
While this may seem like a large number, it is only about $1,062 per hectare or $430 per
acre. Over half of Burlington’s farms, those below 70 acres in size (see Table 3.2)
earned $30,000 or less. It is not surprising then that many of the farmers augment their
farm operations with another source of income.
Table 3.3: Gross Farm Receipts & Operating Expenses in Burlington 1996-2006
Year
Gross farm receipts
1996
2001
2006
$33,794,742
$23,974,891
$30,613,802
Total Operating
Expenses
$34,022,600
$22,698,362
$26,040,401
New Revenue
$(227,858)
$1,276,529
$4,573,401
Table 3.4: Gross Farm Receipts and Operating Expenses per hectare in Burlington
1996-2006
Year
1996
2001
2006
Gross farm receipts
per hectare
$6697
$4889
$7110
Total Operating
Expenses per hectare
$6742
$4629
$6047
32
New Revenue
per hectare
$(45)
$260
$1062
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Characteristics of Farm Operators
Table 3.2 showed a decrease in the number of farms between 1996 and 2006. Figure
3.2 below shows that the average age of farm operators in Burlington is increasing.
Between 2001 and 2006, the percentage of ‘young’ (below 35) operators remained fairly
constant, with an increase in the percentage of ‘over 55’ operators and decrease in the
age group from 35 to 54.
33
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Where 52% of operators worked exclusively on farm related activities in 2001, by 2006
that number increased slightly to 55%. Furthermore, the number of operators working
over 40 hours per week increased to 24% and more on paid activities outside of their
farm. It can be inferred from the earlier discussion on Farm Economics that much of this
off farm work is being performed to supplement their farm income.
What is Happening
There are several programs happening within Halton, in the Greater Toronto Area and
across Ontario and Canada to assist farmers and farming.
The Greater Toronto Agriculture Action Plan
The GTA regions of Durham, Halton, Peel and York and City of Toronto, in partnership
with the GTA Federations of Agriculture, and with the support of the Ontario Ministry of
Agriculture and Food have prepared an Agriculture Action Plan that was officially
launched in September of 2005. The purpose of the Action Plan is to keep the GTA
agricultural industry competitive and the main areas of focus were economic
development, education/marketing, land use/policy and accountability/responsibility. For
a copy of the plan, contact the Region of Halton.
Agricultural Community Development Fund
The Halton Agricultural Community Development Fund is a regional initiative to support
and develop the agricultural industry and community in Halton. The program is open to
agricultural organizations that have projects with a need for assistance. Projects should
deliver regional objectives and policies, as set out in the regional Official Plan, and
promote the sharing of information and expertise with other organizations.
Organic Farming
Across Canada there is an increasing interest in organic food production. Within Halton,
a number of farms are registered as organic, though there are none currently in
Burlington. In late 2006, the Canadian government published the Organic Products
Regulation to regulate organic certification in Canada for organic products. In Ontario,
there are a number of organizations that are qualified to certify farms and processing
operations and the process can take anywhere from two to four years.
Farm to School Program
This is a program that is organized by Halton Region to bring fresh, locally grown
produce into Halton schools. St. John’s School in Burlington participated in a pilot
project in 2008, and in 2010 the program expanded to 10 schools in Halton, including
three in Burlington: Lakeshore, St. Gabriel’s and St. John’s.
Farm Fresh Food Box
This program by Halton Region began in 2004 in association with St. Christopher’s
Church in Burlington, when 162 boxes of fresh food were packed. By 2007, 550 boxes
were packed for delivery across Halton Region. The program is open to all residents,
and the boxes are dropped-off to nine locations throughout Burlington.
Local Food Procurement Policy
Halton Region has implemented a local food procurement policy for the operation of the
cafeteria at the Halton Regional Centre.
34
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Canada-Ontario Environmental Farm Plan (EFP)
The EFP is a voluntary educational program for farm families delivered through local
workshops. The ultimate goal is the preparation of an individualized Environmental Farm
Management program that addresses a wide range of areas, including pesticide use,
wetland preservation and manure management. Funding is available from a number of
federal and federal/provincial programs. Since its establishment in 1992, almost half the
farms in Ontario have participated in the program, though specific figures for Burlington
were not available.
Issue: Rural Lands
Why was it Measured
Most of Burlington’s rural area is within the area covered by three provincial plans, the
Greenbelt Plan, the Niagara Escarpment Plan and the Parkway Belt West Plan. These
plans promote the conservation of rural and natural heritage lands and permit some
small settlement areas. The Parkway Belt West Plan, despite including “Parkway” in its
name is more focused on utility corridors and highways than on parkland or green lands.
The city established a firm urban-rural boundary in its 1994 Official Plan. The
introduction of the Greenbelt Plan in 2005 reinforced this boundary, providing additional
protection to rural lands in Burlington. The area of the Greenbelt was measured in 2005
and 2010 to provide a baseline, so that its size can be tracked in the future to determine
whether the Greenbelt has expanded or contracted. Similar measurements are being
made of the Niagara Escarpment Plan area and the Parkway Belt West Plan area as a
comparison.
What was Measured
The area of land within each of the Greenbelt Plan, the Niagara Escarpment Plan and
the Parkway Belt West Plan areas was measured in 1978, 1985, 2005 and 2010. In
Burlington, all Niagara Escarpment Plan lands are within the Greenbelt Plan area (see
the map in Figure 3.4 overleaf).
Table 3.5: Land within Provincial Plans (hectares)
Year
1978
1985
2005
2010
Greenbelt
Plan
8592
8592
Niagara
Escarpment Plan
7297
7297
7297
Parkway Belt
West Plan
1849
1849
565
473
Source: City of Burlington GIS mapping and Halton Region Parkway Belt study
35
Total
1849
9146
9157
9065
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 3.4: Map of Greenbelt, Niagara Escarpment, Parkway Belt and Urban Area
36
What was Found
The total amount of land within provincial plans has generally increased over time
because of the addition of new plans, with the exception of a small loss between 2005
and 2010 because of deletions from the Parkway Belt Plan. The introduction of the
Greenbelt Plan in 2005 provided increased protection for all lands north of Highway 407
from urban development. The amount of land within the Parkway Belt West Plan has
decreased over the years as several amendments have deleted land from the plan.
What is Happening
Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation
The goal of the Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation is to nurture and support activities
that preserve and enhance the Greenbelt’s agricultural, rural and ecological integrity.
One of its primary mandates is to distribute a $25 million endowment fund over the next
five years to non-profit groups.
In the agricultural area, such projects might: promote and fund new markets for local
produce from the Greenbelt; provide renewable power and energy conservation support
to farmers; and support education and learning experiences for students and youth in
agriculture. Other projects might work to preserve and enhance natural areas or
promote rural land uses not directly related to agriculture.
Issue: Urban Agriculture
Why it was Measured
Once agricultural lands are urbanized they are essentially lost to future production and
almost half of Ontario’s urban land is built on former prime agricultural lands (Statistics
Canada 2005). Feeding growing cities relies on sustainable agricultural sources. As the
City of Burlington grows and the amount of active farmland declines, it is important to
find ways to feed the population. Urban agriculture can take on many forms, but
generally, the objective is to increase the amount of fresh food grown within the urban
area. It is seen as a sustainable practice because it uses fewer resources to get from the
growing source to the table.
Many residents have the opportunity to garden in their back yards, but those who live in
apartments or do not have back yards do not have the opportunity to garden, unless
garden plots or community gardens are available. The availability of community gardens
in Burlington was measured to determine the opportunities available.
What was Measured
The number of garden plots available was measured. The numbers were compared with
our neighbouring municipalities to obtain a view of the relative efforts of Burlington.
What was Found
The number of garden plots and community gardens in Burlington is shown in Table 3.6.
Burlington currently has three community gardens with a total of 80 plots/patches. A
new communal garden (not divided into plots/patches) was opened at the Forestview
37
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Church in the summer of 2010. There are also 50 garden plots available in Bronte
Creek Provincial Park, and although the park is in Oakville, it is very close to many
Burlington residents. Our neighbours, Oakville and Hamilton, have more gardens and
more plots. In 2008 Oakville had 4 gardens with a total of 143 plots (excluding the plots
in the provincial park). The gardens in Oakville are sponsored by the Town of Oakville,
not by churches. Hamilton has 14 gardens, which are sponsored by the city, by
churches and by community groups, made up of 7 gardens with 344 plots, 3 communal
gardens and 4 other gardens.
Table 3.6: Number of Garden Plots in Burlington
Location
3455 Lakeshore Road
1377 Walkers Line
Bromley Road
287 Plains Road East
Sponsor
Holy Cross Lutheran Church
North Burlington Baptist Church
St. Elizabeth’s Anglican Church
Holy Rosary / Service Club
Total
# of plots
2002
2010
12
12
52
52
20
16
20
0
104
80
Source: Phone calls to churches
What is Happening
The city’s Strategic Plan, Future Focus Seven, contains the following initiative in section
5.4.E “Identity city and other public lands that could be utilized for community gardens
and made available to community groups.” The Parks, Open Spaces and Community
Trails Services Master Plan in item 2.3 states “Develop potential community gardens in
conjunction with community-based groups and via the use of city land”.
At this point in time no lands have been identified, but in 2010 Parks and Recreation
staff were involved in discussions with interested citizens and the Burlington Sustainable
Development Committee about establishing some municipal community gardens.
Halton Region
The Halton Region Health Department recognizes that from a best practice perspective,
community gardens and other urban agriculture initiatives are a valuable part of an
overall food security strategy. As such, support funding may be available from their
Healthy Community Fund. Municipalities may apply in partnership with a community
group.
In 2009 the Halton Region Health Department established the Halton Food Council,
which has subsequently been drafting a Halton Food Charter. Its purpose is to define a
vision for a food system which benefits our community and environment, to set a
direction for the community (e.g. individuals, organizations, businesses, institutions, local
and regional governments in Halton), to engage and participate in conversations and
actions related to achieve the goal: To increase awareness of food systems issues and
opportunities in Halton Region and communicate with a common voice to promote
action. This document will include the promotion of community gardens and other urban
agriculture opportunities as part of a sustainable food system.
38
Issue: Farmers’ Markets and On-farm Sales
Why it was Measured
Farmers’ markets provide the opportunity for residents to purchase fresh local produce
directly from local farmers. The provision of farmers’ markets links the rural area to the
urban area and provides a measure of the connection between farmers and residents.
What was Measured
The number of farmers’ markets in both the rural and urban area of Burlington was
measured. The markets in the urban area typically include several vendors who bring
their produce into the city. The markets in the rural area are typically on the farm and
sell the products grown on the farm; therefore the variety of products available is usually
limited at the farm.
What was Found
There are currently two farmers’ markets in Burlington, one located at Burlington Mall
and one in Aldershot; the market in downtown Burlington closed over ten years ago (see
table below).
Table 3.7: Number of Farmers’ Markets
Year
No. of markets
1990
2000
2010
2
1
2
Name of market
Downtown and Central Arena
Burlington Mall
Burlington Mall and Aldershot
Source: A Guided Tour of Halton Farms 2010 and Lions website
The Burlington Nelson Lions Club organizes the market in Burlington Mall – the market
was originally located at the Central Arena parking lot starting in 1960 and moved to
Burlington Mall fifteen years ago. It currently has 42 vendors, runs on Wednesdays,
Fridays and Saturdays from May to October, and the Lions estimate that the market
employs approximately 200 people, either through working on the stalls or in the field
getting the produce ready for the market. The Aldershot market is located at 36 Plains
Road East, runs on Thursdays and Sundays from May to November and is organized by
the Aldershot Lions Club. It has been operating for two years.
The number of on-farm sales was measured for 2007 and 2010 – it was found in both
years that there were 5 farms selling fresh produce and 3 horse farms with riding (see
Table 3.8).
39
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 3.8: On-farm Retail Shops
Farm type
2007 and 2010
Applevale Orchards
Bousfield’s Apple and Cider
Fresh produce Greenfields Organic
Hutchinson Farm
Uncle Scott’s Farm
Bayview Equestrian Centre
Horse Farms
Hunter Green Equestrian Centre
with riding
Parish Ridge Stables
Source: A Guided Tour of Halton Farms 2007 and 2010
Even though the urban population of Burlington has continued to grow, there has been
no change in the number of farms selling produce between 2007 and 2010, and there
has been virtually no change in the number of farmers’ markets in the urban area over
the past twenty years.
What is Happening
The City of Burlington has reviewed the provision of farmers’ markets, and as part of the
Core Commitment and strategic plan, Future Focus 7, has looked into establishing a
market in the downtown. The city would like to see a farmers’ market established
downtown and continues to seek potential partnerships.
Farm Fresh Halton/Simply Local
The Halton Farm Fresh program is a regional initiative to promote Halton’s agriculture
industry and create an important connection between Halton residents and Halton farms.
The program promotes the consumption of locally produced farm products and
participation in farm activities to encourage a strong link between the farming community
and consumers. A brochure entitled A Guided Tour of Halton Farms has been
developed, detailing farms in Halton Region that cater directly to the public such as ‘pick
your own’, nursery products, equestrian farms and agricultural entertainment. Of the 47
farms listed, 11% are in Burlington.
Conclusion
Over the last thirty years, Burlington has grown from a population of 100,000 to over
175,000 residents. Typical of most North American municipalities, Burlington has grown
outward. Recognizing the importance of protecting its rural lands, the city established a
firm urban and rural boundary in the 1994 Official Plan, strengthening past efforts to do
the same. In 2005, the Greenbelt Plan established an urban and rural boundary across
the Greater Toronto Area, providing even more protection to the city’s existing boundary.
The average age of farmers is increasing steadily, while the number of younger farmers
willing to take over the family farm or start their own farm operation is not growing. This
is not surprising given the most recent figures. Between 1996 and 2006 the number of
farm operators that were working off the farm (i.e. a second job) increased by 23%.
Based on profit margins of $430 per acre and the average farm size in 2006 of 135
40
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV acres, this does not produce a sustainable income base for the average farmer in
Burlington.
Ensuring the economic sustainability of Burlington’s agricultural resources will be as
important as ensuring its environmental sustainability if we are to take advantage of the
benefits of local food sources.
There are a number of reasons to support a viable local agricultural system. Importing
foods is becoming increasingly expensive and problematic. As the cost of oil and gas
increases, the cost to transport these foods also increases. Importing our food over such
large distances also has negative effects on our environment and the quality of the food
we are getting. Epidemics such as Avian Bird Flu and Bovine Spongiform Encephalitis
(BSE or “Mad Cow Disease”) further complicate the ability to import food safely into local
markets. Globally, the reliability of imported food is also likely to decrease steadily as the
impacts of climate change alter the growing seasons and viability of crops. A local food
source allows for greater control and a much shortened supply chain from grower to
consumer. Foods are fresher, the resources consumed to get the product from field to
table are reduced considerably, and the economic benefits are kept within the
community.
As noted in the ‘What’s Happening’ sections above, there are a number of actions that
have been taken by various levels of government to invigorate the agricultural industry;
however, this is something that will take a coordinated effort on a number of different
fronts to address. The main responsibility for these initiatives lies with the Region of
Halton, but the city has a supporting role to play at the local level.
Due to the population growth in the Greater Toronto Area, there is an increased need to
find innovative ways to produce more food locally. Harvest sharing programs and
community gardens are ways to encourage more food production locally by providing
citizens who would not normally be able to garden with space to grow their own food.
Burlington seems to be lagging behind other communities in terms of the number of
community gardens. In addition to community gardening, programs to promote backyard
gardening can also encourage citizens to grow their own food and decrease their
dependency on commercial farming.
Recommendations
1. The city support a community garden policy that identifies and builds communal
plots, and communicates and co-ordinates availability utilizing its website and
communication capabilities.
2. The city continue to pursue interest in establishing a Farmers’ Market in downtown
Burlington, and actively promote and encourage residents to support local food
producers and farms with an awareness campaign.
3. The city encourage citizens to establish backyard gardens through an awareness
campaign.
41
Chapter 4: Waste Management
Introduction
Making responsible decisions about waste can be problematic. Burning garbage
pollutes the air; burying it can pollute groundwater. Recycling is a good start. But just
because there is a Blue Box doesn’t mean the problem is solved. Sorting and selling of
recycled materials is costly and once the market is flooded with a material like
Styrofoam, what is the next step?
Reducing the amount of waste that need disposal is the goal that we should be working
towards. Some call waste reduction precycling, and David Suzuki calls this the fourth R:
Rethinking. How much material can be recycled? Is there another way to sell or
purchase this product that uses fewer resources? What happens to this product once it
is no longer of use? Who pays for the resulting waste?
Throughout Ontario, the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is
expanding, placing the financial and/or operational obligation for recycling, reusing or
properly disposing of packaging or products on manufacturers and first importers.
Industry Funding Organizations (IFOs) such as Stewardship Ontario, Ontario Tire
Stewardship, and Ontario Electronic Stewardship, collect and redistribute funds to cover
some or all costs of recycling for Blue Box materials, household hazardous waste, tires
and electronics. For example, Stewardship Ontario contributes 50% of the costs of the
Blue Box program, of which 20% is directed to a Continuous Improvement Fund that
municipalities apply to in order to receive partial funding for projects. At the LCBO and
Beer Store, consumers pay a refundable deposit and the Beer Stores take back all
alcohol containers for reuse or recycling. However, there are still opportunities for
producers and users to bear the true cost of diversion of other products.
Currently, the human community is living in deficit: demand exceeds supply or
regenerative capacity. Although waste management is a service of Halton Region,
individuals, communities and companies are the first line of waste management. In this
chapter, waste issues related to home, school and business will be explored, and
recommendations for improvement in these services will be put forward.
Issue: Monitoring of Closed Landfill Sites
Why it was Measured
Two closed landfill sites exist in Burlington. Bayview Park operated from 1957 to 1972
and covers approximately 14.8 hectares. It is located north of the QEW and west of King
Road. Burlington North Service Road landfill site was in use from 1972 until 1988. It is
about 34.5 hectares and is north of Highway 403 on Lot 4, Concession 2. Both sites are
monitored by the Regional Municipality of Halton to measure chemicals in groundwater
and other environmental effects.
Bayview Park has a clay base that rests on shale. Drains below ground along the
western and southern boundaries of the site take leachate to a sanitary sewer for
treatment at the Burlington Skyway sewage treatment plant.
The Burlington North
42
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Service Road site is built on shale, although there is a layer of clay at the northern
portion. Underground drains in the north of the site and a toe drain collector around all
sides of the site remove seepage and again send it to the Burlington Skyway sewage
treatment plant
What was Measured
Table 4.1 shows recent measurements of chloride, chloro-benzene, benzene, dichloromethane and vinyl chloride at the Bayview Park site:
Table 4.1: Closed Bayview Landfill Leachate Sampling Results: 2004-2008
Year
Chloride
(mg/L)
2005
2006
2008
ODWQS
S By-Law
403-578
210
320
250
1,500
ChloroBenzene
(μg/L)
9.9-22.7
31.0
25.0
30
Benzene
(μg/L)
0.3-1.4
2.4
2.0
5
*DichloroMethane
(μg/L)
<1.0-<2.0**
<3.0**
<0.5**
50
Vinyl
Chloride
(μg/L)
<0.4-<0.8**
<1.0**
<0.2**
2
* Dichloro-Methane = Methylene Chloride
** “<” symbol denotes the laboratory detection limit not the actual detected amount
No samples obtained in 2004 and 2007 due to dry conditions at line of sampling
ODWQS: Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards (2006)
S By-law: Halton Sewer Use By-Law No. 2-03
Source: Technical Report 2008 (Closed Bayview Park Landfill Site – Monitoring Program)
Table 4.2 shows recent measurements of chloride, toluene, benzene and vinyl chloride
at the Burlington North Service Road site:
Table 4.2: Closed Burlington North Service Road Landfill Leachate Sampling
Results at Maintenance Hole 23: 2005-2008
Year
2005
2006
2007
2008
ODWQS
S By-Law
Chloride
(mg/L)
163-860
250-743
210-960
230-600
250
1,500
Toluene
(μg/L)
4-11
<1.0-30
6-8
3-50
24
Benzene
(μg/L)
1-4
<0.5-5
1.4-4.3
1.8-5
5
Vinyl Chloride
(μg/L)*
<1-<5
<1.0-<2.0
<1.0
<1-<2
2
* “<” symbol denotes the laboratory detection limit not the actual detected amount
ODWQS: Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards (2006)
S By-law: Halton Sewer Use By-Law No. 2-03
Source: Technical Report 2008 (Burlington North Service Road Landfill Site – Monitoring Program)
Maintenance Hole 23 is part of the leachate collection system and is located at the south edge of the site
Between these two closed landfill sites Hanson Brick has established an aggregate
operation that is monitored annually to study groundwater and methane at points along
the east and west boundaries. These measurements give an indication of the health of
43
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV the water and land abutting the closed landfills. The chart below shows a sampling of
these measurements.
Table 4.3: Sample Measurements at Brick Site
Location
Year
Month
Chloride
µg/L
Toluene
µg/L
Benzene
µg/L
Vinyl
Chloride
µg/L
EAST Well 99-1a
2006
Feb.Aug.
Mar.
WEST Well 99-6a
2007
Feb.
352,000 362,000 350,000
2006
Aug.
Feb.Mar.
2007
Aug.
Feb.
340 469,000 1,020,000 490,000
Aug.
94
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
<0.2
Appendix E, Historical Analytical Results, Golder Associates, March 2009 (08-1113-0035)
What was Found
The technology of lining landfill sites was not in effect when these two sites were in use,
so leaching is an issue. Therefore, monitoring these two landfill sites continues to be an
important safeguard of the land and water in this area. Complementary statistics from
the monitoring of the east and west boundaries of the Hanson Brick site can shed light
on changes and issues in these two closed landfills. As the contents of the landfills
continue to decompose, chemical measurements will steadily decrease. Measurements
continue to be below the Ontario Drinking Water Standards and within the Halton Sewer
Use By-Laws.
Issue: Current Landfill Site
Burlington’s garbage from residences and some businesses is transported to the
Region’s Waste Management Site, located at 5400 Regional Road 25 in Milton. This
site was opened in September 1992, at a cost of $60 million. It is divided into several
sections or “cells,” each engineered to reduce groundwater pollution with a sub-liner, a
four foot thick compacted clay liner and an extensive network of perforated pipes
designed to collect the leachate for treatment at a sewage treatment plant. The liner
also extends up the sides of the site to control any sideways movement of contaminants.
Finally, to minimize or eliminate the chance of any contaminants entering the
groundwater, the site is designed with a “hydraulic trap,” whereby groundwater pressure
is inwards towards the liner. Should the liner ever develop a leak, groundwater would
seep into the site instead of any contamination getting out. Finally, as a cell is filled to
capacity, it is covered with over four feet of soil and turf. Engineering staff closely
monitor the cell in use and the entire site. In addition, to prevent the landfill contents
44
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV being disturbed, the region hires a falconer with a falcon to keep seagulls away, a
feature that other municipalities are considering.
The lifespan of this landfill has been extended to 2030 from the original plan of 2012
because of increased waste diversion efforts. The Waste Management staff describe
the landfill as a finite resource to be used wisely for the people of Halton.
Why it was Measured
Prior to the implementation of the GreenCart program in 2008, Halton had a waste
diversion rate of approximately 42%. In 2008, with the introduction of weekly Blue Box
and GreenCart collection and biweekly collection of garbage, Halton’s waste diversion
rate is now approximately 60%.
According to the Ontario Municipal CAO’s
Benchmarking Initiative 2008 Performance Benchmarking Report, Halton Region has the
highest residential waste diversion rate in the province.
Prior to the implementation of the GreenCart program, region studies showed that a
typical residential garbage bag contained 45% compostable material (which could go
into the GreenCart) and 17% recyclable materials (which should go in the Blue Box).
Since the introduction of the GreenCart program, and weekly Blue Box and GreenCart
collection, region studies indicate the typical residential garbage bag contains 23%
compostable material and 13% recyclable materials.
In 2008 and 2009, the region was recognized by the Canadian Public Relations Society,
International Association of Business Communicators, Conservation Halton, Municipal
Waste Association, Solid Waste Association of North America and Recycling Council of
Ontario for its waste management communications and outreach efforts. Continued
education by the City of Burlington is important to deal with this issue, along with use of
uniformly recognized containers in malls, parks and other public places.
What was Measured
The annual quantity of Burlington household waste landfilled can be seen in the
following table (4.4):
Table 4.4: Landfill Waste From Burlington (2005 - 2008)
Year
Total Waste
(tonnes/year)
Population
Served
2005
39,485
161,600
Waste per
Capita
(Kg/person/yr)
244.34
2006
40,672
164,400
247.40
2007
42,164
167,400
251.88
2008
32,698
170,100
192.22
Source: Halton Region Waste Management Services Division
Data includes both residential and multi-unit (apartment), and bulk waste.
45
What was Found
Although garbage amounts have been reduced because of recycling initiatives, there is
still much going into the landfill site that could be recycled; namely, 23% could be
composted and 13% could be recycled. The next garbage bag audit will show if these
statistics have improved.
Education, research, political will and strong policy
development are all needed to ensure that the next generation has a solid foundation on
which to build. Continued diversion and precycling/reduction of waste are key to needed
changes.
Issue: Diversion and Transformation
Why it was Measured
Residential, including multi-unit, waste diversion takes place on many levels. Blue Box
and GreenCart curbside pickup occurs each week. Garbage bags are collected
biweekly, while garden waste and Christmas tree collections occur seasonally. Metal
collection is available through a call-in service, and bulk items are picked up once a
month.
What was Measured
Table 4.5: Residential Waste Diverted from Landfill through Recycling ( 3Rs)
Programs in Burlington - Quantity of Waste Diverted (tonnes)
2005
2006
2007
Curbside Blue Box 13,358 14,189 13,498
2008
15,350
Multi-unit Blue Bin
2,411
2,532
2,408
2,462
Christmas Tree collection
142
128
128
125
**6,500
GreenCart
Metal and Appliances
286
294
294
253
Yard Waste (curbside)
5,817
6,590
5,749
7,963
Residential Waste Diverted 22,014 23,733 22,077
32,653
Residential Waste Landfilled* 33,532 34,470 32,641
26,119
Waste Diversion Rate** (%)
40%
41%
40%
56%
Source: Halton Region Waste Management Department
* Excludes bulk waste
** Green cart pick-up began in April, 2008
The annual cost in Halton Region for all waste pick-up is approximately $12 million.
Since Burlington’s population is about one-third of the region’s population, this estimates
the cost for Burlington at $4 million. The next curbside waste audit should give current
information about residential recycling and garbage bag content.
Residents can participate in waste diversion measures in many ways. For example,
household hazardous waste items may be dropped off in person at the Regional Waste
46
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Management site on Regional Road 25. Accepted items include fuel, car batteries,
antifreeze, bleach and paint; usable paint is available for free from the nearby Paint
Reuse Shed. For a fee of $5/50 kg., items like tires, metal and wood can be deposited
at the Container Station.
On site is a permanent Salvation Army trailer that accepts clothing, linen, working
computers and undamaged furniture. Several centres and organizations accept
reusable items, such as The Reuse Centre, Goodwill, St. Vincent de Paul Society and
Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
What was Found
Whatever is diverted from landfill and transformed becomes a new resource and is worth
money. GreenCart contents from Halton, Simcoe and Hamilton regions are sold to the
Central Composting Facility in Hamilton. Here the organic waste is treated in tunnels
where moisture, temperature and oxygen are controlled to ensure that proper
breakdown occurs. After about a month the resulting matter can be used as fertilizers by
farmers and landscapers. Computerized equipment from the Netherlands monitors the
process. The yearly operating cost is $2 million and the revenue from resulting fertilizer
sales is $6 million.
At this time, Halton Region has contracted the processing and marketing of blue box
material to Emterra. Styrofoam is no longer accepted in the blue box because the only
market for Styrofoam in Ontario has closed.
For the past twenty years, there has been extensive research into comparable products
and the recycling of Styrofoam, with about $21 million invested from the private sector
and half a million from the Ontario Government. Until recently, Styrofoam had been
recycled into many household products such as coat hangers, compact disc cases, door
framing and even commercial fireproofing material. Styrofoam is no longer recycled in
Halton, even though over 50 percent of Ontario municipalities are still recycling it.
Styrofoam food service products are significantly less expensive than paper packaging,
so using Styrofoam can save businesses tens of thousands of dollars - money that could
be invested in further research and the recycling of this product.
What is Happening
Because it is very expensive to recycle every type of plastic, municipalities have chosen
certain ones to recycle. In Halton Region, only plastics numbered 1, 2 and 5 can be
recycled, leaving products such as Styrofoam and squeezable bottles for landfill. The
City of Hamilton recycles number 6 plastic. Public awareness about recyclable plastics
is key. The chart overleaf indicates what each number on the bottom of a plastic
container or package represents:
47
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 4.6: Numbering of Plastics
Plastic
ID Code
Type of
Plastic
Applications and Usages
General Information
Plastics that are Accepted in Halton’s Recycling Program
1
polyethylene
terephthalate
Most Water, Pop, Salad
Dressing Bottles, some
packaging such as Peanut
Butter Jars.
2
high-density
polyethylene
Milk, Detergent, Oil, Juice
Bottles and some Toys
5
polypropylene
Bottle Tops, Microwaveable
Ware, Disposable Yogurt
and Margarine Containers
2
3
4
5
6
7
Hard to de-contaminate.
Proper cleaning releases
harmful chemicals.
Easier to recycle.
Considered one of the
safest forms of plastic,
however is used very
frequently.
Considered one of the
safest plastics, however is
also used very frequently.
Plastics that are NOT Recycled in Halton
high-density
Plastic Bags.
polyethylene
polyvinyl
Food Wraps, Cling Films,
Produces toxins from
chloride
PVC Piping, and Pet’s Toys. manufacture to disposal.
low-density
Shrink Wraps, Squeezable
Less Toxic, however still
polyethylene
Bottles and Plastic Bags.
harmful
Diapers, Carpeting, Takepolypropylene away containers,
Disposable Cups
May leach into food
Polystyrene
Plastic Cutlery, Foam
products, very expensive to
(commonly
recycle.
Packaging such as Egg
known as
Cartons and Disposable
Can be shredded and
Styrofoam)
Take-away containers
mixed with acetone and
poured into moulds.
Usually layered or Mixed
Very difficult to recycle
Other
Plastics, Beverage Bottles,
since they are generally
(often
Baby Milk Bottles, Electronic combined with other
polycarbonate)
Casing
plastics
Source: David Suzuki, Plastics by Number, 2008
Recycling electronics
The recycling electronics program changed in 2009 with the implementation of the
Ontario Electronic Stewardship (OES) program. Recycling groups registered with this
program are monitored and must meet strict qualifications. Companies such as Staples
participate in the OES WEEE (Waste, Electrical and Electronic Equipment) program and
also have a yearly challenge to recycle ink cartridges (now over two million a year). The
City of Burlington ships its E-waste to the main local electronic recycler in Brampton
(Sims) to be properly re-used or recycled. In 2009 the city shipped almost 4,000 pounds
of equipment.
48
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Take It Back! Halton
Take It Back! Halton is a directory of local businesses that take back many of the
products that they sell. Accepted materials include medications, cell phones and
rechargeable batteries. This is a good example of extended producer responsibility
(EPR), a worldwide initiative to involve producers and consumers in the total lifecycle of
manufactured goods. This program is discussed further in Chapter 12 – Sustainable
Consumption in Practice.
Household hazardous waste
Household hazardous waste continues to be accepted by the Region of Halton.
Statistics on the collection of paint, oil, etc. is on a regional basis, rather than by
municipality. This service reduces what is landfilled and ensures that hazardous waste
is properly disposed of or recycled. Stewardship Ontario has developed an interactive
website “Do what you can” that provides a list of the closest locations where people can
take leftover consumer hazardous or special waste.
Yard waste
Yard waste is composted at the Regional Waste Management site; the resulting compost
is then available to residents for pick-up at no cost each spring and fall. Backyard
composting is encouraged and composters are available from the region for $15.
Collection of Landfill Gas
Landfill gas collection at the Halton Waste Management site was initiated in the summer
of 2006. In conjunction with Oakville Hydro, Halton Region produces electricity for 1,500
homes by using methane from the landfill site. This is done through three kilometres of
piping buried in the waste; the methane is vacuumed to a generating station on site. In
2009, 4.1 million cubic metres of gas was collected.
Zero Waste
In 2008 the Ministry of the Environment declared in its “Toward a Zero Waste Future”
that “…almost all waste materials have some form of inherent value that can be
recovered.” (p. 3). Burlington’s City Hall recently initiated a Zero Waste program in 2010
in its offices, aiming to reduce garbage and to recycle appropriately. This positive
modelling challenges Burlington’s citizens with a new goal. Continued leadership in
ways to eliminate what goes into landfill sites is the responsible route. Individual citizens
have shared this responsibility, as at the annual Ribfest event organized by the Rotary
Club of Burlington Lakeshore where recycling and organics collection has become
increasingly well organized with support from community volunteers and Halton Region.
Burlington Mall’s waste diversion program for example has won them the 2009 gold
award from the Recycling Council of Ontario. Enforcing waste audits and waste
reduction work plans that are updated annually in compliance with Ontario Regulation
102/04 is an important provincial role. Schools with enrolment over 350, retail
complexes and construction and demolition projects that fall within the regulation’s
requirements should be assessed each year.
Bottled Water
Burlington City Council approved a plan to restrict the sale of single use water bottles in
city facilities in early 2010. The city has implemented a program to retrofit or replace
water fountains to add bottle fillers throughout its facilities. In November 2010, the city
launched its Thirsty? Try the Tap campaign to promote tap water and began restricting
the sale of bottled water in most facilities.
49
Issue: Industrial, Commercial and Institutional (IC&I)
Waste
Why it was Measured
In the late 1980s, the region limited its collection of waste for the industrial, commercial
and institutional (IC&I) sector. Waste collection service was offered to small businesses
whose waste consisted of general office material and who complied with set bag limits.
Private collectors, who use landfill sites outside of the region, collect most of the local
IC&I waste. More than half of Ontario’s waste is IC&I generated. This means that
Burlington’s IC&I waste, although not contributing to Halton’s landfill site, is part of other
regions’ problems.
The IC&I sectors include a wide range of businesses such as manufacturers, banks,
retail shops, schools, apartment buildings, construction and demolition companies.
Waste generated by these IC&I sectors is an important candidate for waste diversion
because it represents half or more of the total waste stream.
The IC&I sectors generate a considerable amount of waste. Like municipalities, many
companies have already implemented considerable measures to reduce their waste and
some companies divert even more than 60% of the waste they produce. Setting waste
diversion objectives and targets would require IC&I sectors to develop a data
management system to monitor and report their waste diversion activities. Businesses
with ISO 14001 already have these systems in place.
What was Measured
In the 2004 discussion paper “Ontario’s 60% Waste Diversion Goal” published by the
Ministry of the Environment it was noted that IC&I waste composition is similar in content
to household waste but differs in proportion. Reducing landfill waste from this sector
requires continued education, monitoring, regulation and enforcement, training, reporting
and research.
What was Found
Ontario Regulation 103-94 states that IC&I sectors are responsible for recycling their
own waste. IC&I sectors need to plan for and reduce the amount of waste generated by
their operation and minimize “the life cycle impacts of products and their packaging”
(MOE 2008, “Toward a Zero Waste Future”). Other countries are further ahead. The
Netherlands recycled 51% of its construction and demolition waste and 64% of its
industrial waste by 2000. It is working toward an 83% recycling goal by 2012. Japan
recycled almost half its industrial waste in 2002, and this recycling sector accounted for
1.6% of GDP in 2005. Recycling of construction waste is a viable industry. Commitment
to waste reduction in the IC&I sector is a key environmental issue.
What is Happening
The Burlington Mall provides a good example of local best practice in its waste diversion
measures for a commercial business. Waste diversion has increased since 2006 from
29.2% to 40.1% in 2009. For this the Burlington Mall won a Gold award in 2009 by the
Recycling Council of Ontario. The corporate goal is to increase diversion by 5%
annually, targeting a rate of 65% by 2015. The waste diversion is audited by an
50
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV independent consulting firm assisted by very specific breakdown reports supplied by
waste hauling contactors. A recent “Be An Eco Hero” community e-waste collection
campaign collected and diverted over 14 metric tones of e-waste from landfill. Five
waste depots are located through the property for tenant use. Separate bins are
identified for electronics, Styrofoam, cardboard, garbage and plastics. In the office
galleria there are seven - 60 litre bins for coffee grounds (1,200 lb/week produced) and
waste oil from the food court (up to 22 tonnes in peak months) is collected and converted
into fertilizer. The pet store generates eight - 75 litre bins of pet waste that is also
recycled. Cardboard generates over 562 tonnes annually and lightbulbs are recycled.
Under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building
certification program, points can be achieved for increasing the diversion of construction
waste. The city has four buildings under the LEED program and has established targets
for the diversion of construction waste for all of them, such as 75% for the Appleby Ice
Arena expansion and the new fire station.
Conclusion
The city continues to take steps in support of both its 1990 declaration that Burlington is
a sustainable community and its mission statement that Burlington is committed to
'ecological health.' Halton Region monitors the closed landfill sites, and supports waste
reduction and diversion from the current landfill site through various programs and the
city has adopted a zero waste policy for municipal operations. Gaps exist, however, in
the areas of education of citizens about precycling/waste reduction and careful sorting of
household waste, IC&I waste, and use of Styrofoam. The following recommendations
address these gaps.
Recommendations
1. That waste reduction be a central theme in educating Burlington’s citizens using the
region’s audit of residential garbage as a starting point.
2. That the region be encouraged to recycle more plastics, and to research ways to
recycle Styrofoam, especially number 6, as in Hamilton, and encourage local
businesses to reduce their use of Styrofoam.
51
Chapter 5: Transportation
Introduction
Transportation planning in Burlington is challenging because the population is highly
mobile and favours the automobile in the commute to and from work, and for access to
shopping, recreation and other services. Three provincial highways and several regional
roads pass through the city. GO Transit and VIA rail provide an alternative mode of
transportation between communities in the Greater Toronto Area. Burlington Transit
provides bus service, which is a transportation option available to residents unable to or
preferring not to use the automobile. The transportation sector is a large consumer of
non-renewable fossil fuels and has a major impact on the health and well-being of
Burlington residents through environmental factors such as noise, stress and air
pollution.
The intent of the present transportation policies in Burlington is to “provide an integrated,
diverse transportation system for all residents and businesses that is safe, convenient,
affordable, efficient and energy-conserving while minimizing environmental impacts”
(City of Burlington Official Plan, 2008, Part II p.26).
The contents of this chapter have been divided into three sub-sections: personal vehicle
transportation choices, public transit, and walking and cycling.
Issue: Personal Vehicle Transportation Choices
Why it was Measured
Understanding the transportation choices Burlington residents are making helps to
determine the transportation options that are needed.
What was Measured
Information was obtained from the Transportation Tomorrow Survey – this is a survey
that is undertaken every five years for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area. The data
collection is undertaken with a consistent methodology each time, so results can be
compared over the years.
What was Found
The Transportation Tomorrow Survey shows that Burlingtonians are using automobile
transportation much more frequently than other modes. The data in Table 5.1 overleaf
highlights the overall transportation modal split over the years by Burlingtonians. The
data does not show a significant change in modal split over the twenty years from 1986
to 2006. Automobile transportation continues to remain the dominant form of movement
by Burlingtonians.
52
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 5.1: Modal Split of Trips by Burlington Residents (% of Trips)
Year
2006
2001
1996
1991
1986
Automobile Automobile
Driver
Passenger
73%
16%
75%
16%
74%
16%
74%
14%
72%
16%
Local
Transit
2%
1%
1%
2%
3%
GO
Transit
1%
2%
1%
2%
1%
Walking/cycling/
other
8%
6%
7%
9%
8%
Source: Transportation Tomorrow Survey 1986-2006
Trip purpose is shown in the table below, and it is evident that there has been an
increase in the overall number of home-based discretionary trips by Burlington residents.
The overall percentage of non-home based trip purposes have also slightly increased.
Conversely, the percentage of home-based work related and school related trips have
decreased over time.
Table 5.2: Trip Purpose for Burlington Residents (TTS count)
Year
2006
2001
1996
1991
1986
Home Based
Work
6,325 28%
5,745 29%
4,879 31%
1,472 32%
3,582 31%
Home Based
School
1,838
8%
1,793
9%
1,482 10%
485 10%
1,846 11%
Home Based
Discretionary
10,280
46%
8,930
45%
6,742
43%
1,949
41%
4,857
41%
Non-Home
Based
4,123
18%
3,419
17%
2,500
16%
749
17%
1,971
17%
Table 5.3 below shows that the average of 1.7 automobiles per household has remained
constant even though the number of households and vehicles in Burlington has
increased over time.
Table 5.3: Number of Vehicles per Household
Year
Number of
households
Number of
vehicles
2006
2001
1996
1991
1986
63,200
57,200
50,400
45,600
40,300
107,440
97,240
85,680
77,520
68,510
53
Average
vehicles per
household
1.7
1.7
1.7
1.7
1.7
What is Happening
High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes
To provide more highway capacity for commuters, the Ministry of Transportation of
Ontario has widened the QEW between Burlington and Oakville with the inclusion of
HOV lanes. The HOV lanes opened in December 2010.
Transportation Master Plans
Transportation Master Plans are being or have been undertaken by Metrolinx, the
Niagara-Greater Toronto Area Transit Plan (NGTA), and the Region of Halton. The
plans have developed strategies for the improvement of the present road network, for
transit and for active transportation, including areas in Burlington.
Issue: Public Transit
Why it was Measured
Public transit is a key aspect for sustainable transportation movement. Within
Burlington, residents can access several forms of public transit including: local bus
service - Burlington Transit, regional bus service - GO bus, and regional and national rail
service – GO train and VIA rail. Using public transit results in fewer vehicles traveling on
the roads and therefore less traffic congestion, fewer accidents, lower levels of air
pollutants and fewer greenhouse gas emissions. A diesel bus carrying 20 passengers
emits about one-tenth the hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide, one-third as much carbon
dioxide and about the same nitrogen oxide as 20 cars carrying one person each.
What was Measured
Statistics are available from Burlington Transit for trips on local transit. Statistics are not
readily available for trips on GO Transit or VIA Rail specific for Burlington residents, so
the movement by public transit outside of Burlington cannot be measured. A recent
study undertaken for Burlington Transit collected data on transit services provided by
municipalities of similar size – this study provides interesting comparisons for the
Burlington Transit system.
What was Found
The number of trips by local bus – Burlington Transit - was measured, as shown in Table
5.4. The number of trips per person has slightly increased over the past twelve years.
Despite the small increase over time, the average number of trips at approximately 11
per person in Burlington is a relatively low number of trips.
54
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 5.4: City Transit Annual Ridership
Transit
Passengers
1,860,825
1,851,609
1,714,260
1,672,787
1,625,458
1,519,569
1,500,038
1,508,614
1,504,695
1,484,247
1,395,344
1,304,384
1,228,850
1,195,380
Year
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2001
2000
1999
1998
1997
1996
Average Trips
per Resident
10.8
10.8
10.2
10.2
10.4
9.9
9.6
9.8
10.2
9.8
9.4
9.1
8.8
8.7
Population
172,400
170,100
167,400
164,400
161,600
158,900
156,200
153,500
151,000
148,200
145,300
142,500
139,700
136,800
Source: Annual Burlington Transit Reports to Council.
The ridership levels for Burlington were compared with ridership levels in other
municipalities of similar size in the Transit Operational Efficiency Study that was
conducted for Burlington in 2008. The comparison municipalities were cities of a similar
size in southern Ontario. Some of the municipalities contain universities and colleges,
and the presence of post-secondary institutions is usually considered to contribute to
increased transit ridership. Several of these municipalities encourage the students to
use transit. For example, the University of Guelph provides bus passes for all students
to ride on Guelph Transit buses.
Burlington Transit’s ridership level in 2006 was 10.5 passengers per capita whereas the
average for the peer systems was 24.3, as shown below in Table 5.5.
Table 5.5: Comparison of Burlington Transit with other transit services – 2006 data
130,009
Rev.
hours
per
capita
0.81
Rev.
pass.
Per
hour
12.9
2.08
Net
cost
per
capita
$36.38
13.1
63,394
0.73
18.0
1.91
$40.36
2,952,643
28.9
134,530
1.32
21.9
1.40
$38.28
112,000
3,000,694
26.8
153,592
1.37
19.5
1.38
$71.43
120,520
2,347,764
19.5
128,835
1.07
18.2
1.81
$32.40
Guelph
120,000
5,115,684
42.6
182,918
1.52
28.0
1.18
$59.71
Sudbury
127,193
4,316,111
33.9
155,870
1.23
27.7
1.52
$43.62
Passengers
Pass.
Per
capita
Revenue
hours
159,800
1,672,787
10.5
Brantford
87,115
1,142,547
Kingston
Thunder
Bay
Barrie
102,100
Population
served
Burlington
City
55
Avg.
fare
City
St.
Catharines
Oakville
Average
Ontario
Peers
Passengers
Pass.
Per
capita
Revenue
hours
Rev.
hours
per
capita
Rev.
pass.
Per
hour
Avg.
fare
Net
cost
per
capita
148,000
4,752,760
32.1
143,214
0.97
33.2
1.33
$36.48
165,613
2,414,691
14.6
180,100
1.09
13.4
1.76
$41.44
-
-
24.3
-
1.11
21.8
1.58
$46.18
Population
served
Source: Transit Operational Efficiency Review 2008 by IBI Group
The key findings from the Transit Operational Efficiency Review were:
i. Service level – at .81 revenue hours per capita, Burlington provides very low
service levels and as a result has the lowest ridership level of all its peers. Several
of the peer cities may have higher levels due to universities or colleges within their
jurisdictions.
ii. Ridership level – Burlington transit’s level was 10.5 passengers per capita whereas
the average for the peer cities was 24.3. Those with higher levels have
corresponding higher service levels.
iii. Service utilization – at 12.9 passengers per revenue hours, service utilization is low
and below the industry standard of 20 passengers per hour.
iv. Tax burden – at $36.38 per capita, Burlington taxpayers are paying less for transit
than most other cities in the peer group – average is $46.18.
Overall, Burlington Transit needs to significantly increase its service levels to increase
ridership levels. The Transit Operational Review recommends expanding service into
new subdivision and industrial areas and into the main activity centres – GO stations,
industrial areas, retail centres, high schools and post-secondary schools. As a result of
the 2008 review, Burlington Transit made changes to several routes and revised fares.
What is Happening
Burlington Transit Program - Bike Racks on Buses
In 2006, Burlington transit completed the installation of bike racks on all buses. This
initiative encourages cycling by providing cyclists with the option to complete part of their
trip by bus.
Burlington Transit and GO Program - 65¢ to GO
To make transit more convenient and inexpensive, Burlington Transit (BT) has an
arrangement with GO Transit to allow passengers to ride the bus to catch the GO Train
at a reduced rate of 65¢ per trip. GO commuters can also purchase BT's GO Monthly
Pass for only $26.00.
Burlington Transit Program - Bus Idling
To prevent excess idling times, due to their harmful environmental effects, Burlington
Transit reduced the maximum idle time for transit vehicles to three minutes, effective
June 1, 2009.
56
Transit Priority Measures
These measures give priority to transit vehicles at traffic lights. Priority measures have
been installed at Fairview Street and Appleby Line, and will be installed at Fairview
Street and Brant Street in 2011 – this will assist buses entering and exiting the GO train
stations.
Burlington Transit Program - BT Youth Ambassador Program
Burlington Transit, in association with BurlingtonGreen, has developed the Burlington
Transit Youth Ambassadors program in local high schools. These ambassadors help
coordinate and host a variety of information sessions throughout the year and can
answer questions students may have about how to take BT or about how to get
somewhere on transit.
Burlington Transit Program - Request Stop
Request Stop allows passengers to exit between bus stops after dusk and during poor
weather.
Transfer to Oakville Transit and Hamilton Street Railway Free!
Fare integration allows passengers to go to and from Hamilton and Oakville using HSR
or Oakville Transit for free. Passengers pay the regular fare on the first bus of the trip,
ask the driver for a transfer and then present the transfer to the driver when changing
buses.
Presto Card
Burlington Transit has launched the new PRESTO smart card in Burlington, which
provides a new and convenient way to travel using multiple transit systems across the
Greater Toronto/Hamilton Area (GTHA).
In Burlington, adult riders can use the PRESTO card on BT buses (adult fare is charged
at $2.50/ride with a PRESTO card compared to the regular fare of $3.00). Senior,
student and child fare categories were launched in the fall of 2010. With a PRESTO
card, passengers no longer have to ask the driver for a transfer slip. PRESTO's
smartcard technology will recognize continuous travel each time a passenger taps the
card upon boarding and provides a 2-hour window to make connections. This means a
single passenger can travel for 2 hours on one fare payment with a PRESTO card.
Burlington Transit riders are able to use their PRESTO card on Oakville Transit as well
as GO Transit. Connections to Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) will continue to require
paper, pass and/or cash fare transactions until the launch of their PRESTO card
program in 2011.
Burlington Transit Website
The website was re-designed in July 2009 and the website now includes the ability to
use Google trip planning. This is expected to be an effective tool for riders to plan their
trips.
57
Issue: Walking and Cycling
Why it was Measured
While automobile and transit transportation modes are popular among Burlington
residents, it is important to consider the remaining modes that are movement choices:
walking and cycling, for example. Active transportation choices typically utilize one of
two networks: an off road multi-use pathway or an on-road lane.
What was Measured
The Cycling Master Plan was presented to Council in 2009 and several initiatives that
were recommended have already commenced. For example, some of the gravel
pathways have been re-surfaced with pavement.
There were three main goals for the cycling master plan:
• Address areas of concern in the city that are barriers to cycling or uncomfortable for
cyclists
• Develop policies and other initiatives to create a bicycle friendly Burlington
• Develop a long-term cycling network and implementation plan
What was Found
The number of bike paths has been gradually increasing in Burlington, as shown below
in Table 5.6. In accordance with the Cycling Master Plan, the city is updating its Bike
Pathway Plan to “create a comprehensive network of on-road bike lanes and off-road
multi-use paths and to provide a framework for supportive policies, practices and
programs to encourage cycling in Burlington”.
Table 5.6: Kilometres of Cycling Facilities in Burlington
Year
Kilometres
2006
57
2009
87
Proposed
373
Details
27 km bike lanes
30 km multi-use paths
42 km bike lanes
3 km signed routes
42 km multi-use paths
Source: Cycling Master Plan 2009, City of Burlington
The Cycling Master Plan also recommended two special bikeway designs: bicycle
priority streets and cycling tracks. Bicycle priority streets are local streets that have been
redesigned for bicycle use as a priority over auto or transit use. Cycle tracks are
segregated lanes for bicycles along sidewalks and driving lanes that have cyclist specific
signals. While these ideas have not yet been accepted and put into motion they remain
sustainable options for the city to consider.
58
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The plan also recommended that “sharrows” be introduced – a sharrow is a symbol that
shows that the lane is to be shared by vehicles and bicycles. In 2010, the city
introduced sharrows on the following roadways:
♦
♦
♦
♦
♦
♦
South Drive/Spruce Avenue – Guelph Line to Burloak Drive
Caroline Street – Drury Lane to Hydro Corridor
Stephenson Drive – Maple Street to Hydro Corridor
Grahams Lane – Brant Street to Hydro Corridor
Drury Lane – New Street to Fairview Street
Shoreacres Road – New Street to Lakeshore Road
The plan also recommends improving the cycling links to and from downtown, including
links to Hamilton along Lakeshore Road and across the lift bridge, and recommends that
on Lakeshore Road east of downtown that the centre-turn lane be removed and
replaced with bicycle lanes.
What is Happening
Appleby GO Station Review
Walk and Bike for Life is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the benefits of
walking and cycling (they have recently changed their name to 8-80 Cities). Walk and
Bike for Life facilitated a public meeting on October 18, 2008, followed by a workshop on
October 18, 2008. As a result of the workshop, a Community Action Plan for Life was
drafted, which recommended improvements to the Appleby GO station to improve
access to the station for cyclists and pedestrians. As a result of the recommendations of
the plan, in 2010, the city installed bike lanes and a sidewalk on Fairview Street from
Appleby Line to the station entrance and provided a pedestrian crossing facility. GO
Transit will be making future improvements on their property for pedestrian and cycling
access to the station.
Aldershot Village Walkability Project
Visioning workshops were held in Aldershot in 2009 in cooperation with the WalkOn
initiative of Halton Region that encourages walking for active living. Recommendations
59
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV from the workshops are to be implemented through city initiatives along Plains Road
including the design of the new intersection of Plains Road and Waterdown Road.
Downtown Burlington Walkable Community Workshop
A workshop was held in Downtown Burlington on September 21, 2010 by 8-80 Cities
organization. A report will be taken to city council on the workshop in 2011.
Green Map
The City of Burlington in 2010 developed a new Green Map that shows Burlington transit
routes, tourist destinations, pathways and cycling routes. This map reflects Burlington
as a livable community – the new trails and pathways make walking and cycling safer
and encourage healthy lifestyles.
Halton Region Cycling Map
Halton Region is currently working on an update to the regional cycling map.
Conclusion
Despite increases in transit services, improved GO train service and new bikeways, the
predominant transportation choice of Burlington residents is the automobile. Table 5.1
shows that there has been virtually no shift in modal split over the past twenty years.
The city prepared a Cycling Master Plan, but there are no counts of the actual number of
cyclists in Burlington, no measures of the use of cycling routes, and no clear idea of the
number of residents who cycle. In order to evaluate the actual amount of cycling as an
active transportation option, the city could consider undertaking a survey of cycling.
Future improvements are planned for the GO train service, HOV lanes have been
constructed on the QEW and improvements are planned for cycleways, so there may be
some changes in modal split in the future. Unless there are changes in modal split away
from the automobile, there will be no lessening of congestion on the roads and no
reduction in pollution from the private automobile (unless there is a switch to electric or
hybrid cars).
Recommendations
1. That the city continue to build more cycleways in Burlington – in particular that
Lakeshore Road east of downtown be converted to contain bike lanes instead of a
centre-turn lane within the next three years and that the connection to Hamilton
across the lift bridge be implemented.
2. That the city undertake a cycling survey to determine the actual number of Burlington
residents who ride their bikes, and to use the information to assist in the
implementation and prioritization of the Cycling Master Plan.
3. That the city encourage GO Transit to undertake improvements to the Burlington and
Aldershot stations, similar to the improvements planned for Appleby station.
60
Chapter 6: Energy
Introduction
Canadians are among the highest per capita energy users in the world. We use energy
to keep our homes and offices at a “comfort level” despite wide ranging outside
temperatures. We use energy to transport people and cargoes across our large and
dispersed country. We use energy to power the various businesses that manufacture the
products we export and use domestically.
Nationally, over 67% (representing 1.3 trillion barrels of oil equivalent) of this energy is
produced by the burning of fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas. There are three
main concerns associated with the large-scale burning of fossil fuels.
•
The process produces large quantities of carbon dioxide gas, a greenhouse gas
that is a main contributor to climate change.
•
Fossil fuels are non-renewable resources. Current data indicates that in the case
of oil, our most versatile fossil fuel, we may soon reach a point where we are
using more oil than we are discovering. From this point (often referred to as peak
oil) our supply of oil will decline with resulting shortages and large-scale price
increases.
•
Extraction, transportation and preparation of fossil fuel resources is accompanied
by significant environmental damage, such as that seen in the Athabasca Oil
Sands or the 2010 Gulf Coast oil well accident.
The major types of energy used in residences, businesses and industry are electricity
and natural gas. Electrical energy is produced from a variety of sources, both renewable
and non-renewable.
Issue: Electricity and Natural Gas Consumption
Why it was Measured
The consumption of energy by a community is reflective of its size, economic activity and
lifestyle. The United States and Canada far outpace other countries around the world in
per capita consumption of energy. Comparisons of per capita GDP to energy consumed
show that countries such as Norway, Switzerland and Japan manage to achieve
comparable economic success with more efficient use of energy. These same
comparisons show that Canada matches per capita energy consumption with the US, yet
achieves only two-thirds the per capita GDP.
A continuing growth of electrical energy demand, on both an overall and per capita basis
requires the construction of additional generation facilities and/or the purchase of energy
from other jurisdictions, which result in greater per-unit costs for consumers. For
example, as demand for electricity approaches supply limits, more expensive and
typically more polluting sources of electrical energy generation must be brought online to
support the load.
61
The concerns regarding burning fossil fuels have been outlined by others, but some of
the more critical issues include:
•
Environmental damage associated with extraction of underground and surface
resources, including irreparable destruction of native flora and associated
ecosystems, displacement of native fauna, significant consumption of fresh
water, pollution of surface waters, pollution of aquifers, contamination of nearby
soil, and air pollution from flaring, off-gassing and refining operations
•
Rapid depletion of non-renewable resources that can be used for production of
materials and medicines, in addition to energy
•
Criss-crossing of continents with pipelines, pumping stations, storage tanks,
wellheads and other infrastructure to support extraction and delivery
•
Production of large quantities of airborne carbon dioxide gas by combustion
•
Release of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere from
wellhead operations, leaks and system losses
•
Production of nitrogen oxides, the primary contributor to photochemical smog,
contributing to significant health effects and premature deaths
•
Production of sulfur dioxide, the leading cause of acid rain
Nuclear energy plants have high capital and operating costs and carry the environmental
challenge of the safe storage of radioactive spent fuel rods. Most water power
installations alter the landscape through the establishment of storage reservoirs behind
dams.
What was Measured
Electrical consumption in the City of Burlington was measured in the residential and
commercial areas. Natural gas consumption in the City of Burlington was measured in
the residential, commercial and industrial areas.
What was Found
As shown in Table 6.1 overleaf, most of Burlington’s electricity is consumed by the
commercial and industrial sectors – they consume twice as much electricity as the
residential sector. For natural gas, the consumption is different as shown in Table 6.2
overleaf – the residential sector consumes approximately the same as the commercial
and industrial sectors combined. Electrical consumption per residential customer has
been decreasing from 2006 to 2009. Natural gas consumption remained about the
same per capita for residential customers and overall usage dropped for commercial and
industrial customers.
62
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 6.1: Annual Electrical Consumption City of Burlington (kWh)
Year
Residential
Commercial/Industrial
2006
2007
2008
2009
528,303,980
545,180,314
534,926,360
521,949,922
1,127,957,055
1,149,396,210
1,106,811,692
1,051,461,564
Residential
per capita
10,074
10,139
9,666
9,165
Table 6.2: Annual Natural Gas Consumption City of Burlington (kBTU)
Year
Residential
Commercial/Industrial
2007
2008
2009
4,553,254,924
4,690,779,756
4,704,548,373
6,121,246,619
6,042,732,432
5,314,805,621
Residential
per capita
89,975
91,041
89,932
The contribution by City of Burlington residents and businesses to greenhouse gases
from electricity consumption for heating, cooling, process heat and electrical energy can
be estimated by mapping usage to the mix of energy sources used to generate electrical
power in Ontario. Figure 6.1 (a) shows the electricity supply mix for Ontario and Figure
6.1 (b) shows the future predicted supply mix.
Figure 6.1: Electricity Supply Mix for Ontario
a - Ontario electricity supply mix, 2005
b - Ontario electricity supply mix, 2015
(predicted)
Figure 6.1 shows that over 74% of Ontario’s current electricity comes from sources that
do not emit greenhouse gases. Within five years, Ontario hopes to increase that
percentage to 88% by eliminating coal from the supply mix. Based on this data,
residents and commercial enterprises within the City of Burlington contributed nearly 318
thousand tonnes of greenhouse gas to the atmosphere in 2009 from electricity use
alone. The effects of greenhouse gases on the City of Burlington are discussed in the
chapter on climate change.
63
What is Happening
In 2006, the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) prepared its first Integrated Power System
Plan (IPSP) under a directive from the Ontario Minister of Energy. The IPSP describes
the what and how required to achieve specific goals including maximizing energy
efficiency and conservation, maximizing renewable generation, pursuing generation
sources with no greenhouse gas emissions (i.e. nuclear), replacing coal-fired generation,
and installing gas-fired generation in specific locations around the province. In strict
accordance with the plan, the province, through the OPA, has been proceeding with
several supply initiatives.
Natural Gas Fired Generation
The OPA has awarded 20-year Clean Energy Supply contracts to several companies to
build, own and operate simple/combined-cycle natural gas plants in locations around the
province. These natural gas power plants are designed to:
•
•
•
•
Provide electricity supply in the local and regional area
Provide rapid start-up generators to support intermittent generation from
renewable energy sources such as wind and solar
Provide generation that can be turned on at any time to adjust to changing
electricity demands
Provide stability to the regional transmission system
Combined-cycle power plants are able to convert approximately 55% of the energy in
natural gas into electrical energy, substantially better than the 30% to 35% achieved by
traditional coal or oil burning plants. This translates to smaller greenhouse gas emissions
per unit of fuel. There are approximately 5,000 MW (megawatt) of natural gas facilities
in commercial operation or under development, including those shown in Table 6.3.
Table 6.3: Natural Gas Combined Cycle Plants in the GTA
Plant
Portlands Energy Centre
Toronto, ON
Halton Hills Generating
Station, Halton Hills, ON
York Energy Centre
Township of King, ON
Greenfield South Power Plant
Mississauga, ON
Size
Date Operational
Owner
550MW
June 2008
OPG/TransCanada
631MW
April 2010
TransCanada
393MW
April 2010
Pristine Power
280MW
September 2012
Eastern Power
The Green Energy and Green Economy Act 2009
The Green Energy and Green Economy Act was passed by the Ontario Legislature and
received royal assent in May 2009. It is a significant and unique act in that it opens many
pathways for development of a clean energy supply in Ontario. The Act:
• gives priority to conservation and renewable energy in electricity supply
• creates long-term secure contracts for renewable energy generation (feed-in
tariffs) differentiated on the basis of technology, size, location and generating
capacity
64
•
•
•
•
•
•
guarantees renewable energy generators connection to the grid
changes regulation of new sources of electricity generation by mandating that the
Ontario Energy Board consider promotion of renewables, conservation and smart
grid implementation in ongoing regulation of the system
specifically includes opportunity for renewable energy development by First
Nations and Métis communities
specifically targets the removal of barriers to community-owned renewable
generation
creates a governmental office to aid renewable energy development and the
designation of a specific public official responsible for renewable energy
development
facilitates streamlining the approvals and permitting processes for renewable
energy generators at the same time as ensuring that siting criteria are clearly
defined that take into account potential environmental and health impacts
recognizes the need to integrate distribution and transmission planning and
expansion with the development of renewable energy
Renewable Energy and the Feed-In Tariff (FIT) Program
One of the key elements of the Green Energy and Green Economy Act 2009 was a
mandate to the Ontario Power Authority to create and run a feed-in tariff program
offering long-term secure contracts to developers of renewable energy projects. The
program offers standardized rules and prices for projects of various sizes and fuel
sources, and is designed to allow for a reasonable return on investment over the 20 year
contract term.
The FIT program is divided into two streams – FIT and microFIT. The microFIT program
has simpler application and contracting processes than the regular FIT program and is
intended for renewable energy projects under 10kW. The Ontario Power Authority has
created partnership programs to help defray the “soft” costs related to development of
community-owned and aboriginal-owned renewable power projects.
Issue: Energy End Use
Why it was Measured
The majority of the energy we use is obtained from the burning of fossil fuels, primarily
oil and gas. Understanding the uses for energy provides a context for reducing its
consumption in specific ways.
Buildings are responsible for a significant amount of energy use and are estimated to
account for 38% of all secondary energy use in Canada, contributing 30% of all
greenhouse gas emissions in the country. In order to effectively manage this, serious
consideration must be given to design and construction techniques for new buildings and
for retrofits in the city.
Heating and cooling systems can also be made more efficient through use of geothermal
energy resources. Technologies to use geothermal reduce energy input by utilizing the
fact that below the frost line, the earth is at a virtually constant temperature year round. It
is therefore warmer than the air in winter and cooler than the air in summer. A series of
65
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV horizontal or vertical pipes are laid some two or more meters below the ground and a
liquid is pumped through them. In winter the liquid extracts heat from the surrounding
earth and this heat is transferred to air or water to warm the building. The reverse
process takes place in the summer.
What was Measured
Space heating accounts for 57% of residential energy use in Canada and approximately
52% of commercial/industrial energy use, according to the Canadian Centre for Energy
Information. It is therefore prudent to seek methods to reduce the energy required for
this function.
High performance building envelopes, characterized by highly insulated (high R-value)
and airtight construction can greatly reduce energy demand for heating and cooling. The
push toward adoption of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
building standards and a more comprehensive Ontario Building Code in 2012 will help
drive these changes. Programs have been introduced to reduce the usage of electricity
by households – one such program is the free removal of old refrigerators that use large
amounts of electricity.
What was Found
The Canadian Centre for Energy Information calculates the energy use in homes as
shown in Figure 6.2. Although this is an average for Canada, the graph gives a pictorial
example of the likely energy use for Burlington households.
For a specific measure of energy conservation in Burlington, data was collected on the
number of refrigerators collected in the Great Refrigerator Roundup program, and the
anticipated energy savings from their collection. The collection program includes
refrigerators, freezers, window air conditioners and dehumidifiers.
Table 6.4: Refrigerators Collected in Burlington
Year
2007
2008
2009
Refrigerators
collected
706
1108
964
Source: Burlington Hydro
66
KWh saved
(cumulative)
540,186
1,171,891
1,599,199
Figure 6.2: Energy End Use in the Residential Sector
Lighting
4%
Appliances
13%
Space
Cooling
1%
Water
Heating
25%
Space
Heating
57%
Small businesses consuming less than 50kW are eligible for the Power Savings Blitz
(PSB) program. The PSB provides up to $1,000 in energy-saving products and
installation costs to reduce business energy consumption. The PSB program covers
items such as the installation of T8 fluorescent lights and LED exit signs, water heater
jackets, pipe insulation and faucet aerators. Burlington Hydro has retrofitted 1,575 small
businesses since 2009, including 307 in 2008 for energy savings of 1,014 kWh per
annum, and 1,268 in 2009 for energy savings of 16,002 kWh per annum.
The Ontario Power Authority sponsors a conservation program called the Electricity
Retrofit Incentive Plan (ERIP), which is administered through local utilities. According to
Burlington Hydro 47 larger businesses (over 50kW) have participated in the ERIP
program over the past few years.
Table 6.5: Annual Energy Savings from ERIP Program Participants
Year
2007
2008
2009
KWh savings
per annum
161,929
533,022
303,338
Source: Burlington Hydro Corporation
What is Happening
Smart Meters
Burlington Hydro is participating in an implementation plan mandated by the Government
of Ontario to introduce smart meters for electricity. Smart meters provide customers with
consumption information that will allow them to manage their demand for electricity. This
is expected to result in more efficient use of electricity supply because customers will be
charged variable rates depending on time of day.
By the end of 2009, Burlington Hydro had installed 33,578 out of 61,688 smart meters
needed, and the remaining smart meters will be installed by 2011. There are no energy
savings with the installation of smart metering but knowing the peak usage times may
67
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV encourage residents to adjust their energy usage. At the present time, Burlington Hydro
has not announced when it will start charging different rates for electricity used at
different times of the day.
GridSmartCity™
In May 2009, Burlington Hydro announced the launch of GridSmartCity™, which brings
together a wide range of stakeholders from industry to government to work together to
promote the growth of smart grids. The new program is intended to showcase how smart
grids integrate electricity production, delivery and consumption to produce a more
efficient, reliable and responsive system that is better for the environment.
GridSmartCity™ partners will collaborate on smart grid projects to illustrate new
technologies. These projects will help to fuel the growth of innovative green industries.
Smart grid technologies, combined with advanced communications and computer
analytics, will aid greater use of renewable ‘Green Energy’ sources from the sun, wind
and devices such as electric vehicles.
Peaksaver™ Program
The Peaksaver™ program is available throughout Ontario and is run with support from
the Ontario Power Authority. A programmable thermostat is installed in homes of
customers that sign up for the program, enabling Burlington Hydro to briefly reduce
central air conditioning electricity usage during critical peak use times. A $25 incentive is
available to customers that sign on with Peaksaver™.
Conclusion
Burlington businesses have demonstrated significant uptake of conservation incentive
programs, which have achieved a reduction of just over one million kWh in total between
2007 and 2009.
Similarly, we see good response to the Great Refrigerator Roundup program in the
residential sector, accounting for nearly 1.6 million kWh conserved.
The province is making progress toward its goals of increasing the proportion of
renewable energy on the grid and greatly reducing carbon-emitting generation by 2014.
Recommendations
1. That the city complete a Community Energy Plan with a focus on generation,
including opportunities for district and renewable energy, community conservation
initiatives, green building infrastructure, the distribution grid, and energy
management. Consideration should also be given to land use planning and
transportation initiatives to ensure an efficient and energy conserving community.
2. That the city prepare corporate energy reduction targets and mechanisms to find
energy saving initiatives by considering both upfront capital and operating costs.
3. That the city participate in a renewable energy co-operative with city facilities and
residents, as permitted under the Green Energy and Green Economy Act 2009.
68
Chapter 7: Air Quality
Introduction
“Poor air quality poses a significant public health risk to people living in southern
Ontario. The five common air pollutants, ground-level ozone, fine particulate matter,
sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, have been clearly and
consistently linked to acute health impacts such as increases in non-traumatic deaths,
hospital admissions for heart and lung conditions, emergency room visits, asthma
symptoms and respiratory infections at concentrations that are commonly experienced in
southern Ontario. A growing body of scientific literature indicates that these common air
pollutants also contribute to the development of chronic heart and lung diseases
including lung cancer and asthma.” Quotation from: Air Quality, Human Health and the
Built Environment: Protecting Air Quality through the Land Use Planning Process; Dr.
Bob Nosal; Halton Region report MO-12-07
The Ontario Medical Association developed software to model the illness costs of air
pollution, and published statistics for 2005 by region and county. The statistics showed
the number of premature deaths, the number of hospital admissions and the number of
emergency room visits due to air pollution, as shown in Table 7.1 below. The data for
deaths was updated in 2008, resulting in a change in the number of premature deaths
estimated by the model (a 77% increase). The population of Halton increased from 2005
to 2008 by 14%, so this increase in deaths was over and above what would have been
expected. The Ontario Medical Association does not give any analysis about the
increase, and with so little data no trends are established, but the numbers show that the
effects of air pollution on the population are significant.
Table 7.1: Deaths and Illnesses in Halton due to Air Pollution
Incident
2005
2008
Premature Death
190
336
Hospital admissions
540
-
Emergency room visits
2010
-
Source: Ontario Medical Association “The Illness Costs of Air Pollution” 2005 and 2008
The characteristics, sources, general health effects and ecological effects for the five
common air pollutants are described in Table 7.2 overleaf. The table also includes
Ammonia and Volatile Organic Compounds.
69
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 7.2: Summary of Pollutant Characteristics, Sources, General Health and
Ecological Effects
Pollutant
Characteristics
Sources
Groundlevel
Ozone
(O3)
A colourless,
odourless gas at
ambient
concentrations. A
major component
of summer smog.
Formation and
transport strongly
dependent on
meteorological
conditions.
Not emitted
directly into the
atmosphere but
produced when
NOx and VOCs
react in the
presence of
sunlight.
Fine
Particulate
Matter
(PM2.5)
Mixture of
microscopic solid
particles and
liquid droplets in
the air that are
less than 2.5
microns in
diameter. Major
component of
summer and
winter smog.
Composition
varies with origin,
residence time in
the atmosphere,
time of year and
environmental
conditions.
Formed indirectly
from chemical
reactions in the
atmosphere or
directly through
fuel combustion
(motor vehicles,
power generation,
industrial facilities,
residential
fireplaces and
woodstoves,
agricultural
burning and forest
fires, construction
activity and road
dust).
Colourless gas
with a strong
odour similar to
burnt matches.
Smelters, utilities,
iron and steel
mills, petroleum
refineries, and
pulp and paper
mills. Lesser
sources include
transportation,
residential,
commercial and
industrial space
heating.
Sulphur
Dioxide
(SO2)
70
General Health
Effects
Irritation of the
respiratory tract and
eyes. Exposure in
sensitive people can
result in chest tightness,
coughing and
wheezing. Linked to
increased hospital
admissions and
premature deaths.
Considered toxic under
Canadian
Environmental
Protection Act, 1999
(CEPA).
Particles may penetrate
deep into the
respiratory system.
Aggravation of existing
heart and lung
diseases. Can
exacerbate symptoms
such as chest pain,
shortness of breath,
wheezing and fatigue.
Linked to increased
hospital admissions and
premature deaths. PM
containing metals
released in emissions
from copper smelters or
refineries or zinc plants
are considered toxic
under CEPA.
Breathing discomfort,
respiratory illness,
aggravation of existing
respiratory and
cardiovascular disease.
People with asthma,
chronic lung or heart
disease are most
sensitive. Considered
toxic under CEPA due
to its contribution to
formation of PM.
General
Ecological
Effects
Agricultural crop
loss and visible
leaf damage in
many crops,
garden plants
and trees.
Impacts include
corrosion,
soiling, and
damage to
vegetation and
reduced
visibility.
Leads to acid
deposition that
contributes to
lake
acidification,
corroded
buildings,
reduced
visibility and
damage to trees
and crops.
Sources
General Health
Effects
General
Ecological
Effects
Nitrogen
Oxides
(NOx)
A reddish-brown
gas with a
pungent and
irritating odour.
Includes nitric
oxide, nitrogen
dioxide (NO2) and
nitrous oxide. A
precursor to O3.
All combustion in
air produces NOx.
Major sources
include
transportation,
power plants,
primary metal
production and
incineration.
Increased sensitivity for
people with asthma and
bronchitis including
coughing, wheezing,
and shortness of
breath. Lung function
impairment and
reduced resistance to
respiratory infection.
NO and NO2 considered
toxic under CEPA due
to its contribution to
formation of PM.
Leads to acid
deposition that
contributes to
lake
acidification,
corrodes
metals, fades
fabric, degrades
rubber and
damages trees
and crops.
Carbon
Monoxide
(CO)
Colourless,
odourless,
tasteless and, at
high
concentrations, a
poisonous gas.
Incomplete
combustion of
fossil fuels mainly
in the
transportation
sector.
Impairment of visual
perception, work
capacity, learning ability
and performance of
complex tasks. People
with heart disease
particularly susceptible.
Ammonia
(NH3)
A colourless gas
with a pungent
odour noticeable
above 50ppm. It is
a precursor to
smog yielding
ammonium
sulphates and
nitrates.
Sources include
agricultural
livestock and
poultry waste
management and
fertilizer and
pesticide
application.
Gaseous NH3
considered toxic under
CEPA due to its
contribution to formation
of PM.
Volatile
Organic
Compounds
(VOCs)
Carbon containing
gases and
vapours. They are
“volatile” because
they easily and
quickly evaporate
into the air. VOCs
contribute to form
O3 and secondary
PM.
Sources are
mainly
transportation,
such as road
vehicles, and the
use of general
solvents.
Health effects vary
according to the specific
compound. Several,
such as benzene, have
been declared “toxic”
under the CEPA due to
its contribution to
formation of PM.
Pollutant
Characteristics
Source: Halton Partners for Clean Air – Clean Air Plan 2006
71
Can contribute
to the
nitrification and
eutrophication
of aquatic
systems.
Issue: Smog
Why it was Measured
A low-lying haze known as smog, which causes damage to human health, crops and
property, often covers Ontario cities, villages and countryside. Smog is a mixture of
pollutants primarily made up of ground level ozone and particulates (PM2.5; i.e.,
respirable particles smaller than 2.5 microns).
Other major contributors to smog
include nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide
and ammonia.
What was Measured
Smog advisories are issued to the public when widespread, elevated and persistent
smog levels are forecast to occur within the next 24 hours, or if elevated smog conditions
occur without warning and weather conditions conducive to elevated smog levels are
forecast to continue for several hours.
The smog advisory program covers those areas of Ontario where ozone levels are most
likely to exceed the one-hour AAQC (Ambient Air Quality Criterion) of 80 ppb and PM2.5
levels (particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns) of 45 μg/m3 three-hour running
average.
What was Found
Smog episodes are highly dependent upon weather conditions that vary from year to
year and occur most often on hot sunny days from June to September. The burning of
fossil fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and coal, are the main contributors. Burlington is
also impacted by transboundary emissions emanating from the Ohio Valley (coal fired
generating stations). In the report “Air Quality in Halton: Air Monitoring Report” (March
2010), it was estimated that 70% of fine particulate matter in Halton originates from
transboundary sources.
Figure 7.1: Smog Advisories and Smog Days in Halton-Peel 1993 to 2010
60
50
40
smog days
30
smog advisories
20
10
0
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
72
2004
2006
2008
2010
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The inclusion of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the Air Quality Index in August 2002
has enabled the Ministry of the Environment to report on smog episodes year round, not
just in the traditional hot summer months. For example, smog advisories were reported
in Halton from February 4-7, 2005.
The number of smog advisories in Halton-Peel between 1993 and 2009 is shown in
Figure 7.1. The year 2005 was the smoggiest since data was first released in 1993 with
14 advisories spanning 48 days. The smog occurrences started as early as February
and continued through October. This was partially due to a very hot summer in 2005.
What is Happening
The Region of Halton developed a Smog Response Plan in 1999, which was adopted by
the City of Burlington in 2000. The Plan was updated in 2006 and re-named The Halton
Clean Air Plan. The plan contains strategies for smog days and strategies for minimizing
the impact on air quality year round.
Issue: Air Quality Index
Why it was Measured
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is an information system which provides the Ontario public
with a continuous measure of the quality of the air on a real-time basis. It was introduced
in June 1988 by the Ministry of the Environment and is currently reported to the public at
www.airqualityontario.com with hourly updates.
What was Measured
The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures levels of six different contaminants and then
places the readings on a common scale ranging from one upwards. The calculated
number from each pollutant is called a sub-index. The contaminant that has the highest
sub-index level at the time determines the AQI. In Ontario the contaminants that most
often contribute to the AQI are ground level ozone and fine particulate matter.
Table 7.3: Air Quality Index Categories
Category
Range
Very
Good
0 - 15
Good
15 - 31
Moderate
32 - 49
Poor
50 - 99
Very
Poor
>100
Description
Air quality levels that meet long-term goals, normally occurring in areas
having a pristine environment with no local man-made sources of air
contaminants.
Air quality levels that have no known adverse effects on human or animal
health and negligible effects on vegetation, property or aesthetic values.
Air quality levels that have negligible effects on human or animal health
but may adversely affect very sensitive vegetation, property or aesthetic
values.
Air quality levels that may have adverse effects on sensitive members of
human or animal population, or may cause significant damage to
vegetation, property or aesthetic values.
Air quality levels that may have adverse effects on the health of large
segments of the exposed population.
73
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The Index considers six common air contaminants:
• Carbon monoxide (CO)
• Fine particulate matter (PM2.5)
• Total reduced sulphur compounds (TRS)
• Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
• Ground level Ozone (O3)
• Sulphur dioxide (SO2)
There are three air quality monitoring stations in or near Burlington. These stations are
positioned on the western, southern and (until recently) eastern borders of Burlington
respectively. Unfortunately, this means that depending on the prevailing meteorological
conditions, the station may be measuring the air quality of an air mass entering or
leaving the city, but rarely making measurements which are wholly indicative of
conditions within the city borders. For example, the ‘Burlington’ station is, in practice,
monitoring emissions mainly from Hamilton and the QEW. There is currently no station
providing information truly representative of ambient air conditions in north or rural
Burlington.
The wind pattern over Burlington is influenced by the topography of the Niagara
Escarpment and lake breezes from Lake Ontario. As a result, the short-term wind pattern
can vary significantly from one area of the city to another.
Table 7.4: Air Monitoring Stations Used in the Burlington Area (Ontario MOE)
City
MOE
Station #
Representative
area
Hamilton West
-Hwy 403
29118
Main St. and
Highway 403
Aldershot and
West Burlington
Burlington
Beach
44008
Highway 2 and
North Shore Blvd.
East.
The beaches and
downtown core
Hamilton industrial
area and QEW
corridor
Oakville Bronte
44015
Bronte Road and
Woburn Crescent
East Burlington
(Appleby and
Burloak)
Oakville and Burloak
industrial areas and
QEW corridor
Oakville
Station (as of
2002)
44015
6th Line south of
Dundas St.
East Burlington
and Oakville
Oakville industrial
areas
Location
Potential Pollution
Sources
Hamilton city, Hwy
403 and local
industrial areas
Previous State of the Environment reports have contained measures of the six common
air contaminants as listed on the previous page. These measures were obtained from
the Ministry of the Environment’s annual reports on Air Quality in Ontario. This SOER
report does not contain tables of the measures because the levels of air pollution have
not significantly changed and the records can be readily obtained from MOE.
74
What was Found
Details of the AQI for 2000 to 2008 are shown in the three parts of Table 7.5 for the
three monitoring stations that are in or close to Burlington. Most of the time the AQI for
the Burlington area is moderate, good or very good.
Table 7.5: Air Quality Index for 2000 to 2008 for the Burlington Area
Burlington Beach Station
Year
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
Very
good
54.5%
51.2%
39.5%
42.5%
48.7%
41.1%
44.5%
42.2%
41.5%
Good
Moderate
40.2%
41.8%
47.8%
48.5%
43.5%
45.5%
46.1%
48.7%
51.2%
5.2%
6.5%
11.1%
8.1%
7.3%
12.7%
9.1%
8.5%
7.2%
Poor
0.1%
0.5%
1.6%
0.8%
0.4%
0.7%
0.3%
0.5%
0.1%
Very poor
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Days >49
2
7
30
11
6
16
7
13
2
Oakville Station
Year
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
Very
good
58.0%
54.9%
52.6%
37.4%
39.6%
33.7%
37.9%
34.6%
36.4%
Good
38.0%
38.5%
38.1%
51.0%
51.1%
52.0%
52.7%
55.8%
55.8%
Moderate
3.8%
6.1%
8.2%
10.1%
8.8%
13.2%
9.1%
9.0%
7.7%
75
Poor
0.1%
0.5%
1.1%
1.5%
0.5%
1.1%
0.2%
0.6%
0.2%
Very poor
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
Days >49
5
7
18
22
8
20
4
13
2
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Hamilton West Station
Year
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
Very
good
68.5%
66.2%
64.6%
45.5%
50.4%
43.3%
47.1%
42.4%
41.6%
Good
Moderate
29.1%
29.2%
29.2%
45.1%
41.4%
44.5%
44.1%
48.3%
51.0%
Poor
2.3%
4.2%
5.8%
8.5%
7.7%
11.7%
8.5%
8.8%
7.3%
0.1%
0.4%
0.4%
1.0%
0.5%
0.7%
0.3%
0.5%
0.1%
Very poor
Days >49
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
2
13
10
17
12
15
5
11
3
Source: Ministry of the Environment Air Quality Reports
The data in Table 7.5 does not show a pattern – the air quality varies considerably year
over year, and it is hard to tell whether the air is getting cleaner or dirtier. Poor air quality
is a concern and contributes to many health issues, particularly in young children and
the elderly. In 2008, the summary of the AQI for Burlington is as shown below in Figure
7.2. In most cases the pollutant responsible for poor air quality was ground level ozone.
Figure 7.2: Air Quality Index Summary – Burlington Beach 2008
0.1%
7.2%
41.5%
very good
good
51.2%
moderate
poor
Source: MOE Air Quality Report 2008
What is Happening
Burlington Idling Control By-law
In 2004, Burlington introduced an idling control by-law to control unnecessary idling. In
June 2009 the by-law was updated and strengthened. The new by-law restricts idling to
one minute and contains measures for anti-idling enforcement. Idling is now defined as
76
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV a parking offence and parking enforcement officers can lay charges under the anti-idling
by-law. A set fine of $150 was introduced in 2009 and the city has been successful in
charging offending motorists.
Halton Airshed Monitoring
The Region of Halton has become involved in monitoring air quality in Halton. In August
2008, the region started operating an air monitoring station at Bishop Reding High
School in Milton. The station provides the same monitoring as the Ministry of the
Environment’s monitoring stations. The region has also purchased two portable air
monitors that are capable of measuring the same five common air pollutants. The
monitors are being used to determine air concentrations at the region’s Waste
Management Facility, to determine air concentrations near high-traffic corridors, and to
determine the levels of pollution that enter Halton Region on the western border.
Halton Clean Air Plan
The Halton Partners for Clean Air produced the Halton Clean Air Plan in April 2006. The
plan provides information on air pollutants and their causes, and provides strategies for
improving air quality. The Plan was adopted by the City of Burlington in 2006 and the
city is an active partner in implementation of the Plan.
Halton Official Plan – ROPA 38
On December 16, 2009 Halton Regional Council passed amendment No. 38 to the
regional Official Plan that is still subject to approval by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs.
This amendment contains a new policy that requires Air Quality Impact Assessment
Guidelines be used to evaluate applications for sensitive land uses within 30m of a major
arterial road and 150m for a provincial freeway. This new policy relates the growing
evidence of air pollution from traffic with specific measures for determining the suitability
of residences next to highways. The development of the Air Quality Impact Assessment
Guidelines will provide the opportunity for the region to assess the air quality impact of
transportation corridors on new or proposed residential development and recommend
mitigation measures.
MOE Review of Fine Particulates
The Minister of the Environment reported on November 15, 2010 that the Ministry of the
Environment will be undertaking a review of fine particulates – PM2.5. The review will
determine whether MOE will regulate fine particulates – PM2.5.
Air Quality Health Index
The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a new national health-based index to help
individuals protect their health and the health of people in their care from poor air quality.
The new index was developed by the federal and provincial governments in consultation
with health professionals to communicate the health risks posed by local air pollution
conditions and was gradually phased in through 2009 and 2010.
This AQHI is designed to help individuals make decisions about protecting their health
by limiting short-term exposure to air pollution and adjusting activity levels during
increased levels of air pollution. It also helps people understand their response to
different pollution levels to help them plan and enjoy outdoor physical activities at times
when health risks are low.
77
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The AQHI index pays particular attention to people who are sensitive to air pollution and
provides them with advice on how to protect their health during air quality levels
associated with low, moderate, high and very high health risks.
Burlington Green Fleet
The City of Burlington has a strategy called “Greening the Corporate Fleet” that was
adopted in May 2008. Burlington is committed to reducing corporate greenhouse gas
emissions and greening the fleet is an integral part of this strategy. The first hybrid
vehicle was purchased by the city in 2002 and biodiesel fuel was first used in 2003.
Further details on the city’s greening strategies are in chapter 12.
Conclusion
The state of the air quality in Burlington is difficult to evaluate. The monitoring stations
are on the periphery of Burlington and the results vary from year to year. Smog days are
called by the Ministry on a regional basis (eg. Halton-Peel) and not on Burlington data
specifically. The year 2005 saw 14 advisories for Halton-Peel, spanning a total of 48
days of smog. In 2002, there were nine advisories with a total of 18 days of smog and in
2010, there were two advisories with a total of seven days of smog.
The Region of Halton has purchased air monitoring equipment and is starting to obtain
additional data on air quality in Halton. This monitoring, along with the amendment to
the Halton Official Plan regarding sensitive land uses next to arterial roads and provincial
highways may encourage changes to land use planning regulations. This work should
be monitored by city staff to determine whether changes are needed to the Burlington
Official Plan to increase the separation distance of residences from major highways.
There seems to be increased awareness of air quality issues by the residents of
Burlington and there is an interest in alternative energy sources. Until there is more
precise measurement of air quality in Burlington, it will be difficult to report on
improvements to air quality.
Recommendation
That the Region of Halton be requested to install their air monitoring equipment in
Burlington so that Burlington-specific air quality measurements can be obtained.
78
Chapter 8: Water
Introduction
Water is a basic necessity for life. It is essential for survival and it contributes
immeasurably to the quality of life. The list of human uses for water is endless; including
drinking, cleansing, industry, agriculture, power generation, transportation and
recreation.
Water moves through the environment by a process known as the hydrological or water
cycle. This cycle moves water from lakes and oceans to the atmosphere, from the
atmosphere to land, from the land to surface water or groundwater, and back to lakes
and seas. Water enters the atmosphere by evaporation from oceans and lakes and by
evapotranspiration from soil and vegetation. Both processes are driven by heat, primarily
from the sun. Atmospheric water condenses and falls to land as rain or snow
precipitation. Precipitation may evaporate or percolate into the soil, where it may
infiltrate into groundwater aquifers. Water that exceeds the soil’s capacity or lands on
impermeable surfaces runs off to surface water streams and rivers. Surface water,
which flows at a relatively rapid rate, and groundwater, which flows at a much-reduced
rate, discharge into lakes and oceans to complete the hydrological cycle. Figure 8.1
below gives a pictorial representation of the hydrological cycle.
Figure 8.1: The Hydrologic Cycle
Source: Environment Canada 1999
Water may be contaminated at several points of the hydrological cycle. The most
obvious source of contamination is the discharge of industrial and municipal wastes to
surface water. Surface water may also be contaminated by runoff from rural fields,
roadways and urban lawns. Groundwater may be contaminated by landfill, septic bed
leachate, and infiltration of chemicals and bacteria. Water in the atmosphere may be
contaminated by airborne particulates and vapours.
79
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Water can also be naturally purified at several points of the hydrological cycle. The
process of evaporation cleanses water entering the atmosphere, while leaving
contaminants behind. Water percolating through soil can be cleansed of chemicals
forming insoluble complexes and contaminants digested by soil bacteria. Chemicals,
which are very soluble in water, such as chloride or nitrate, pass readily through soil and
enter groundwater. Contaminants in rivers and lakes may form water insoluble
complexes, which are deposited in the sediment, while biodegradable chemicals may be
removed through bacterial action.
In this chapter we shall look at surface water, stormwater management, groundwater,
and drinking water.
Issue: Surface Water
Why it was Measured
Surface water is the component of the hydrologic cycle that flows above ground. Surface
water provides habitat for aquatic life such as fish and other aquatic organisms. The
surface water and surrounding areas provide habitat for aquatic birds and mammals as
well as recreational opportunities and a source of drinking water for humans.
Surface water draining from Burlington’s land area collects in Lake Ontario and Hamilton
Harbour. Burlington creeks draining into Lake Ontario include Roseland, Tuck,
Shoreacres, Appleby, Sheldon and Bronte while those draining into the Hamilton
Harbour are Grindstone, Falcon, Indian, Edgewater, and Stillwater creeks, as well as the
Hagar-Rambo creek diversion channel. Hamilton Harbour is considered an Area of
Concern and is undergoing remediation subject to the objectives of the Hamilton
Harbour Remedial Action Plan.
What was Measured
Conservation Halton monitors water quality in cooperation with the Ministry of the
Environment (MOE) as part of the overall surface water-monitoring program. There are
four watersheds that at least in part pass through Burlington; Bronte Creek Watershed,
Burlington Urban Creeks Watershed, Northshore Watershed, and Grindstone Creek
Watershed (see Figure 8.2 overleaf). A watershed is defined as the entire catchment
area, both land and water, drained by a watercourse and its tributaries. A subwatershed
refers to the catchment area drained by an individual tributary to the main watercourse.
It is important to recognize that this means that Burlington cannot view surface water
within its borders in isolation because what happens within Burlington’s borders will
impact surface water in neighbouring municipalities and vice versa.
Conservation Halton monitors many different aspects of water quality including physical
parameters such as temperature and pH as well as chemical constituents such as
nutrients, sediments, chloride and metals. Sources of contamination include road salt,
pesticides, fertilizer, soil erosion, atmospheric deposition, leaking sewer lines and septic
systems, and industrial and agricultural processes. In many cases, contaminants reach
lakes and streams through the stormwater management infrastructure during snowmelts
and rainfall events.
80
Figure 8.2: Watersheds in Burlington
81
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Among the most prevalent surface water contaminants are chloride, nutrients, and total
suspended solids. Chloride is toxic in the fresh water environment. Fish and other
aquatic species cannot survive in waters with high chloride concentrations. Excess
concentrations of nutrients such as phosphorous can enhance the growth of aquatic
vegetation. The decay of large quantities of aquatic plants and algae uses oxygen thus
reducing its availability to other aquatic animals. Large volumes of total suspended
solids may cause negative effects on stream biota by reducing light penetration and
smothering aquatic insects.
Acceptable concentrations of contaminants are set by Ontario’s Ministry of the
Environment (MOE) and other regulatory bodies. The MOE has set interim Provincial
Water Quality Objectives (PWQO) for total phosphorus at 0.03 mg/L (milligrams per litre)
in rivers and streams and 0.02 mg/L in lakes. The PWQO for chloride is 250 mg/L.
While there is no PWQO for total suspended solids, it is generally accepted that where
and when possible, their concentrations should be below 25 mg/L.
What was Found
Grindstone Creek Watershed
Most of the Grindstone Creek watershed is outside of Burlington in the former
Flamborough Township, now in the City of Hamilton. The headwaters of the creek are
the Hayesland swamp west of Millgrove. Two tributaries join the creek, one originating in
Flamborough Centre, the other in Lake Medad. The lower reach of Grindstone Creek
flows through Aldershot to the west end of Hamilton Harbour. The total area of the
Grindstone Creek watershed is approximately 90 km2. In the early 20th century,
Grindstone Creek had sufficient flow to support a number of water mill industries in
Waterdown.
Base flow in the creek has declined over the years due to development of watershed
lands but it still provides a significant proportion of the total flow into Hamilton Harbour.
While the watershed is only 7% developed, it has suffered losses as a result of human
activities. Over 60% of the forest cover and approximately 50% of the wetlands have
been lost since the beginning of the 19th century. Grindstone Creek is one of the major
water courses emptying into Hamilton Harbour. Conservation Halton has been
monitoring Grindstone Creek water quality since the mid-1960s. The maximum, median
and minimum concentrations of certain water quality results for Grindstone Creek at
Unsworth Avenue are shown in Figure 8.3.
In general, chloride levels in Grindstone Creek as shown in Figure 8.3 overleaf are less
than the Provincial Water Quality Objective of 250 mg/L, though not always significantly
below.
82
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 8.3: Monitoring in Grindstone Creek
Chloride Levels
Chloride Concentrations - Grindstone Creek
350
300
CL (mg/L)
250
Max
200
Min
150
Median
100
50
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Phosphorus Levels
Total Phosphorus Concentrations - Grindstone Creek
0.600
TP (mg/L)
0.500
0.400
Max
0.300
Min
Median
0.200
0.100
0.000
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Total phosphorus levels on the other hand are usually much higher than the Provincial
Water Quality Objective of 0.03 mg/L. These elevated concentrations are not only
potentially harmful to the watershed itself, they are a concern for the remediation of
Hamilton Harbour, an Area of Concern. Elevated nutrient concentrations are a problem
in the Harbour. As nutrient loads from municipal infrastructure (eg. wastewater
treatment plants) are reduced, elevated loads from the watershed become a greater
concern and delay the full remediation of Hamilton Harbour.
83
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Suspended Solids
Total Suspended Solids Concentrations - Grindstone Creek
120.0
TSS (mg/L)
100.0
80.0
Max
60.0
Min
Median
40.0
20.0
0.0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Grindstone Creek results for total suspended solids are not as encouraging. Though the
majority of measurements have been less than the benchmark of 25 mg/L, there have
been instances where results have been higher than desired. There does not appear to
be any identifiable trends in the water quality results for Grindstone Creek. Therefore,
while there is little evidence that the situation is worsening there is also little evidence
that water quality is improving either.
North Shore Watershed
This watershed located on the north shore of Hamilton Harbour contains several
watercourses – Falcon, Indian and Edgewater-Stillwater Creeks and the Hager/Rambo
Diversion Channel. It is a smaller watershed than that of Grindstone Creek, as these
creeks drain from the toe of the Niagara Escarpment down to Hamilton Harbour. Much
of the watershed is characterized as being in a mature state of development with such
corridors as highways, rail lines and major utility lines passing through it. Land use
includes industrial, commercial, recreational and residential components as well as two
closed landfill sites. The North Shore watershed is approximately 33 km2 in size.
Conservation Halton monitored water quality in the North Shore watershed in 2001 and
2002 as part of the North Shore Watershed Study. Based on that study, total
phosphorus concentrations and total suspended solids levels were usually elevated in
the watershed. No chloride data was collected. Conservation Halton has not collected
any water quality data in the North Shore watershed since 2002.
Bronte Creek Watershed
The Bronte Creek watershed is Burlington’s largest, with an area of some 310 km2. The
creek originates near the community of Morriston, at the junction of Highways 6 and 401,
and flows east and south through rural Burlington before entering the Town of Oakville.
The scenic qualities of the watershed and its natural resources attract many visitors who
come to hike, explore, fish and experience other recreational pastimes in the parks and
conservation areas.
84
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The watershed has experienced limited development in its history. About 4% of the
watershed is settled with the majority concentrated in rural settlement areas of Kilbride,
Cedar Springs and Lowville. These communities, as well as area farms, rely on
groundwater for drinking water, irrigation and livestock watering. Urban expansion is
starting to occur in the watershed, particularly as Milton expands to the west.
Conservation Halton has been monitoring the Bronte Creek watershed for more than
four decades. The only monitoring station actually located in Burlington is situated on a
tributary known as Indian Creek located on Appleby Line north of Zimmerman in
northeast Burlington. Indian Creek is a highly altered tributary that has been degraded
by the impacts of agriculture and is now being affected by urban development in Milton.
The Indian Creek subwatershed is approximately 40 km2. Historical water quality results
for Indian Creek are shown in Figure 8.4.
Figure 8.4: Monitoring in Indian Creek (Bronte Creek watershed)
Chloride Levels
Chloride Concentrations - Indian Creek
350.0
300.0
CL (mg/L)
250.0
Max
200.0
Min
150.0
Median
100.0
50.0
0.0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
The measurements for chloride levels in Indian Creek are usually less than the
Provincial Water Quality Objective of 250 mg/L.
Like Grindstone Creek, phosphorus levels observed in Indian Creek are well above the
provincial objective of 0.03 mg/L and are a source of concern, see overleaf.
85
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Phosphorus Levels
Total Phosphorus Concentrations - Indian Creek
0.600
TP (mg/L)
0.500
0.400
Max
0.300
Min
Median
0.200
0.100
0.000
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Suspended Solids
Total Suspended Solids Concentrations - Indian Creek
250.0
TSS (mg/L)
200.0
Max
150.0
Min
100.0
Median
50.0
0.0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
In general, the results for suspended solids are similar to Grindstone Creek. There have
been a similar number of values exceeding the recommended limit of 25 mg/L.
However, perhaps a more representative monitoring station for Bronte Creek is located
in the Town of Oakville at Petro Canada Park. Situated on the main branch of Bronte
Creek just upstream of the mouth, the data from this location reflects water quality
throughout a large portion of central and northern Burlington. Some historical water
quality results for Bronte Creek are shown in Figure 8.5 overleaf.
86
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 8.5: Monitoring in Bronte Creek
Chloride Levels
Chloride Concentrations - Bronte Creek (Oakville)
350
300
CL (mg/L)
250
Max
200
Min
150
Median
100
50
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Median chloride concentrations in the main branch of Bronte creek are always well
below the PWQO of 250 mg/L.
Phosphorus Levels
Total Phosphorus Concentrations - Bronte Creek (Oakville)
0.600
TP (mg/L)
0.500
0.400
Max
0.300
Min
Median
0.200
0.100
0.000
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
However, as is the case for other watersheds in Halton Region, total phosphorus
concentrations often exceed the provincial objective of 0.03 mg/L. Not only does this
affect the watershed, it has negative consequences for the near-shore area in Lake
Ontario where excess algae growth can be a significant problem. The use of agricultural
and domestic fertilizers is a factor in elevated phosphorus concentrations.
87
Total Suspended Solids Concentrations - Bronte Creek
(Oakville)
120.0
TSS (mg/L)
100.0
80.0
Max
60.0
Min
40.0
Median
20.0
0.0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
While total suspended solids concentrations are generally below the PWQO, individual
readings can exceed the 25 mg/L target by a considerable amount. This may indicate
erosion concerns during storm events.
Urban Burlington Watershed
This watershed consists of five relatively small creeks that drain from the escarpment to
Lake Ontario – Roseland, Tuck, Shoreacres, Appleby and Sheldon. All these creeks are
urbanized over much of their length and in some cases flow underground. Like the
North Shore watershed, much of this watershed is characterized as being in a mature
state of development with such corridors as highways, rail lines and major utility lines
passing through it. Land use includes industrial, commercial, recreational and residential
components.
Conservation Halton has been monitoring Sheldon Creek water quality since 2007, so
trends will not be readily apparent. The monitoring location is at Lakeshore Road. This
location, near the mouth of Sheldon Creek, is in the middle of the urban part of
Burlington. The Sheldon Creek watershed is slightly more than 17 km2 in size. Certain
historical water quality results are shown in Figure 8.6.
As might be expected, Sheldon Creek exhibits elevated levels of chloride concentrations
– see overleaf. In almost all cases the results are below provincial objectives, but the
results are not that much lower.
88
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 8.6: Monitoring in Sheldon Creek
Chloride Levels
Chloride Concentrations - Sheldon Creek
350
300
CL (mg?L)
250
Max
200
Min
150
Median
100
50
0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Phosphorus
Total Phosphorus Concentrations - Sheldon Creek
0.600
TP (mg/L)
0.500
0.400
Max
0.300
Min
Median
0.200
0.100
0.000
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Peak values of total phosphorus are often higher than the other creeks in Burlington, and
well above the provincial objective of 0.03 mg/L. This affects the watershed itself and
has negative consequences for the near-shore area in Lake Ontario. The use of
cosmetic fertilizers is a contributing factor.
89
Total Suspended Solids Concentrations - Sheldon Creek
120.0
TSS (mg/L)
100.0
80.0
Max
60.0
Min
Median
40.0
20.0
0.0
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
There are very few measurements of total suspended solids for Sheldon Creek, but a
majority of the results exceed the recommended benchmark of 25 mg/L. This may be
due to Sheldon Creek’s location and the influence of urban runoff.
What is Happening
Environmental monitoring of city creeks is performed by Conservation Halton and City of
Burlington staff on a semi-regular basis. City of Burlington staff inspects all creek areas
at least once every five years.
Hamilton-Halton Watershed Stewardship Program
Conservation Halton implements the Hamilton-Halton Watershed Stewardship Program
to encourage and assist with stewardship initiatives on private lands. The program is
being undertaken in association with Hamilton Conservation Authority and the Bay Area
Restoration Council. Since 1994, over 4,000 landowners have been contacted in the
Hamilton and Halton Watersheds to share information about their individual roles in the
protection and enhancement of natural areas and watercourses.
The Bay Area Restoration Council (BARC)
BARC is a community not-for-profit group that assesses and promotes clean-up projects
in Hamilton Harbour and its watershed. BARC works with all levels of government and
the private sector to keep harbour restoration issues at the forefront of community
discussions and decision-making. Local stakeholders and governments follow a clean
up strategy, created by the community, called the Remedial Action Plan (RAP) and has
authored Toward Safe Harbours reports, highlighting the RAP’s implementation,
successes and setbacks. BARC delivers school programs, community events, resource
materials and newsletters, and coordinates popular community planting and restoration
events.
90
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Burlington BlueCreeks Project
The goal of the Burlington BlueCreeks Project is to improve water quality and riparian
habitat in Grindstone Creek and its tributaries in Burlington.
It is guided by
Conservation Halton’s Grindstone Creek Watershed Study – Our Legacy to Value and is
being funded by the Burlington Community Foundation. The project enable residents,
individual landowners, and community groups to take action to improve the health of
Grindstone Creek while also providing opportunities for environment education.
Conservation Halton, the Hamilton-Halton Watershed Stewardship Program,
Conservation Halton Foundation, the Bay Area Restoration Council and the Royal
Botanical Gardens are partners in the project.
TM
Yellow Fish Road Program
Motor oil, pesticides, fertilizer, soap, gasoline, and other household hazardous wastes
either wash up or are disposed of into storm drains each year, which outlet into local
streams or Lake Ontario. The Yellow Fish RoadTM program is a hands-on project
allowing youth to make a difference by increasing awareness of water pollution in their
community. The program was first introduced by Trout Unlimited Canada in 1991 and
has over 220 communities participating, including Burlington. Volunteers paint “yellow
fish” symbols beside storm drains along local roads to remind people that anything
entering the storm drain systems ends up in local streams and the lake untreated. As
part of the program, information is dropped off door-to-door by participants advising
residents where household hazardous waste can be dropped off for safe disposal or
recycling.
Issue: Stormwater Management
Why it was Measured
Stormwater management is based on a planned set of public policies and infrastructure
to deal with stormwater runoff from precipitation and snowmelt. Traditionally, stormwater
management has been concerned primarily with conveying runoff as quickly as possible
to downstream lakes and streams through piped drainage systems. The focus has
changed over the years to include water quality and erosion concerns, and most recently
to include species protection, protection of groundwater, and maintaining creek and
stream physical characteristics. This evolution has led to the latest objective of
maintaining predevelopment water conditions whenever development is proposed. This
objective is not always understood or implemented.
In a natural environment rainfall is primarily taken by infiltration, evaporation, or plant
transpiration, and surface runoff is minimized. Urbanization however is characterized by
increased impervious surfaces. This places high stresses on natural watercourses and
related environments because a larger percentage of each rainfall event becomes runoff
and can impact local creeks and streams through erosion. There is less capability in the
system for rainfall to be absorbed into the soil, detained, or treated. Figure 8.7 shows
this pictorially.
In Burlington, when planning new developments, stormwater management is typically
provided in a stormwater management facility. These facilities are designed for water
quality, erosion and flood control that are designed to protect downstream lands and the
environment. Generally speaking, these facilities contain a permanent pool of water that
91
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV is part of the treatment process, with additional storage capacity for erosion and flood
control. Wet ponds have been found to be much more effective at improving water
quality than ‘dry’ ponds. Constructed wetlands and combined wetlands/wet ponds are
also used for stormwater management.
Figure 8.7: Stormwater Runoff
What was Measured
Burlington's storm drainage system includes over 500 kilometers of underground storm
sewer pipe and approximately 12,000 catch basins. The storm sewer system, which is
under the city's jurisdiction, is completely separate from the wastewater (sanitary sewer)
system that is under the Region of Halton's jurisdiction. Unlike some municipalities, there
are no combined sewer overflows in Burlington.
Environmental monitoring is undertaken to check the effectiveness of stormwater
management facilities. Monitoring can be undertaken for water quality, erosion and flood
control. With respect to stream erosion, city staff walk selected areas of each creek
every year to inspect general conditions and specific erosion sites. The entire creek is
walked every 5 years. Costs to rehabilitate streams for erosion problems can be very
significant.
What was Found
Stream health in Burlington is often associated with the age of the development
surrounding the creek. Creeks in older subdivisions were often straightened, narrowed,
or hardscaped because the only consideration given was to rapidly addressing the
stormwater. This led to high flow rates during storms and the resultant negative effects
on soil erosion and fish habitat. Creeks that are rehabilitated as part of newer
developments are now wider, less straight, and integrated with more natural plants and
rock material. This means that creek health is improved in those areas and erosion
problems are much less prevalent. However, creek erosion is still a significant
92
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV environmental and financial issue for Burlington. The highest six to eight priority sites for
erosion rehabilitation have budgeted costs of approximately $3.5 million.
What is Happening
Leading communities in North America are currently employing a wide ranging approach
called the treatment train approach whereby a series of solutions or best management
practices are employed. More sustainable stormwater management, also called Low
Impact Development (LID), includes techniques like bio-retention, swales, filter strips,
and soakaway pits as part of the solution. These source and conveyance techniques
manage the stormwater as close to its source as possible by storing and releasing it at a
slower rate or infiltrating it into the ground.
There are at least two infill development sites in Burlington that have been designed with
sustainable LID measures. The two developments, in Aldershot because the soil there
is generally sandy and thus conducive for infiltration, were required to have post
development runoff no greater than the previous development baseline. One of the sites
was constructed to be monitored and the latest results show reduced runoff even though
the site is much more impervious than it was. Burlington has not been as active in
promoting and implementing sustainable stormwater measures as some neighbouring
municipalities have been.
Issue: Groundwater
Why it was Measured
Groundwater is the component of the hydrological cycle which flows below ground and
as such is an important component of the natural water balance. Groundwater provides
water for drinking and irrigation, and contributes to the flow of lakes and rivers. Water
bearing sub-surface formations are called aquifers. Aquifers can either exist in bedrock,
which permits the flow of water through rock fissures and cracks, or through
unconsolidated materials such as sand and gravel. Aquifers are recharged by the
infiltration of surface water and are discharged, as base flow, into surface water streams
and lakes. Aquifers are tapped by wells to supply water for human use in rural
Burlington. A series of geological formations underlie the City of Burlington, as outlined
in Table 8.1.
Table 8.1: Geological Formations in the Burlington Area
Formation
Age (years)
Composition
Water
Yield
Queenston
Amabel
Lockport
Guelph
Wentworth Till
Halton Till
450 000 000
420 000 000
420 000 000
410 000 000
14 000
13 000
Shale
Dolostone and Limestone
Sandy Silt
Sandy silt and Silt
Poor
Good
Good
Good
Variable
Poor
Source: The Hydrogeology of Southern Ontario, Singer et al. (2003)
93
What was Measured
Since groundwater quality is primarily of concern because of its use for drinking water,
the most common contaminants affecting human health are measured. Nitrates and
nitrites, sodium, bacteria (Coliform and E. Coli), metals, and pesticides are among the
most common and measured groundwater contaminants. Some of the sources of this
groundwater contamination are shown in Table 8.2.
Table 8.2: Source of Groundwater Contaminants
Nitrates and Nitrites
Sodium
Bacteria (Coliform
and E. Coli)
Fertilizer from lawns, gardens, and crops
Animal waste
Sewage effluent
Organic soil material
Erosion of salt deposits and sodium bearing
rock
Road salt infiltration
Sewage effluent
Leachate from landfills or industrial sites
Agricultural runoff
Sewage effluent
Animal fecal matter
The presence of nitrate, sodium, and bacteria in groundwater impacts human health and
surface water quality. Nitrites can cause serious short term and long term health effects
particularly for infants and pregnant women when the nitrate is reduced to nitrite.
Though sodium is an essential chemical for human health, excess sodium affects people
with hypertension, heart disease, or kidney problems. Since it is not practical to test for
all forms of bacteria or pathogens, coliform and E. coli are often used as an indicator for
the presence of other forms of bacteria. Coliform and E. coli are known to cause human
illness.
Groundwater quality is measured by sampling results from wells. Since there are many
aquifers along the escarpment, it is problematic to make too many conclusions about
particular well results since water quality can vary significantly between aquifers. In
addition, well results may be affected by the well construction and maintenance,
particularly for bacteria. Regardless, well results give the best indication of groundwater
quality.
What was Found
The province, through Conservation Halton, has established a series of groundwater
monitoring wells. There is one such well in the City of Burlington, a medium depth
monitoring well, located near McNiven Road in Kilbride, which has been monitored since
2003. This well provides information only for the groundwater contained in the tapped
aquifer and may not be representative of the groundwater of other aquifers. Due to a
number of reasons, only three tests have been done. The water quality results from this
well are shown in Table 8.3.
94
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 8.3: Well Monitoring in Burlington
Sample Date
Oct 23, 2003
Sept 22, 2006
Oct 14, 2009
Sodium
(mg/L)
34.2
14.9
14.7
Nitrate and
Nitrite (mg/L)
0.93
0.75
0.94
The Halton Regional Health Department conducts periodic surveys of residential well
water quality. Most of the private wells in the Region of Halton are located within the
boundaries of the Town of Milton and the Town of Halton Hills. Therefore the published
results primarily represent the wells in those areas. However, the results are indicative
of groundwater results that would be expected for wells within the City of Burlington.
Table 8.4: Nitrate Levels in Wells
Survey Year and
Sampling Period
1993
April – June
July – September
2000
April – June
July – September
2006
June – August
Average Nitrate
Level (mg/l)
2.3
1.9
1.78
2.52
n/a
The Ontario drinking water standard for nitrate is 10 mg/L. The results from the
monitored well in Kilbride and the average results from the wells in Halton Region,
indicates that the water quality falls within the drinking water standard.
To be considered potable water, the aesthetic objective for sodium is 200 mg/L.
However, the local Medical Officer of Health needs to be notified when the sodium
concentration exceeds 20 mg/L since this level may affect people with existing medical
conditions. The results from the monitored well in Kilbride shows results that are well
within acceptable boundaries for drinking, but are close to the 20 mg/L limit that could be
problematic for some people. The elevated levels of sodium are not necessarily
surprising since the escarpment bedrock has a high sodium content
What is Happening
Local agencies prioritize their well monitoring budgets based on issues that have the
greatest impact on their mandates. The Kilbride monitoring station and private wells
continue to be monitored for water quality, but since there is no real evidence of
worsening trends, there are no plans to expand the monitoring programs.
95
Issue: Drinking Water and Water Consumption
Drinking water should be safe, aesthetically appealing, and free from objectionable
colour or odour. The quality of drinking water is defined by its chemical, physical and
biological content. Good quality drinking water is free from disease-causing organisms,
harmful chemical substances and radioactive isotopes.
Drinking water regulations contain comprehensive requirements for sampling and
testing. Waterworks must take regular and frequent samples of their treated water and
have the samples tested for microbiological parameters, chlorine residuals, turbidity,
volatile organics and other health-related parameters.
The Burlington Water Purification Plant (WPP), located at 3249 Lakeshore Road,
Burlington, was designed to produce about 263 ML/d (million litres per day) of treated
drinking water. The raw water source is Lake Ontario. The Burlington WPP is a
conventional filtration plant with a process that consists of Actiflo® (microsand-enhanced
clarification), filtration, fluoridation and ozone for disinfection and taste and odour control.
Seasonally, the water is chlorinated at the intake for mussel control. The treatment
chemicals used in 2009 were:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
chlorine gas (disinfection and mussel control)
hydrofluosilicic acid (fluoridation)
aluminum sulphate (coagulation)
polymer (coagulation aid)
sulphuric acid (pH adjustment)
sodium bisulphite (dechlorination)
liquid oxygen (ozone generation)
hydrogen peroxide (ozone quenching, taste and odour control)
potassium hydroxide (pH adjustment)
The plant is monitored 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Water quality tests are
performed in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002 and other regulations.
The treated drinking water is pumped into the South Halton distribution system, which
serves Burlington, Oakville and parts of Milton. Burlington is also served by the Oakville
Water Purification Plant (WPP), located at 21 Kerr Street, Oakville and the new Burloak
Water Purification that has just recently come into service.
Treated municipal drinking water is used for residential and ICI (industrial, commercial
and institutional) purposes. It is estimated that the residential sector consumes
approximately 70% of water in Burlington whereas the ICI sector consumes
approximately 30%, so the water habits of residents have a significant effect on the total
water usage. Canadians use drinking water for a variety of residential uses. About 85%
of water is used for indoor purposes and about 15% is used for outdoor purposes such
as watering lawns and washing vehicles. Most indoor use is for bathing, showering and
flushing toilets. Figure 8.8 shows proportionately how typical Canadians use water in the
home. By understanding the use of water, it is possible to identify the greatest
opportunities for efficiencies.
96
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 8.8: Residential Indoor Water Usage
Kitchen and
drinking
Cleaning
10%
5%
Laundry
20%
Toilet
30%
Bathing and
showering
35%
A further issue facing municipalities is water leakage in the distribution system before it
reaches the end customers. Environment Canada has estimated that Canadian
communities lose an average of 13% of their distributed water to leaks in pipes and other
water infrastructure assets. Burlington would be expected to have a lesser percentage
of leaks than the national average because it is a newer community with relatively new
water infrastructure.
Why it was Measured
Canada is considered to be a water-rich nation, having 20-25 percent of the world’s
available fresh water. However, we need to be aware that its availability cannot be
assumed to be unlimited. We must keep in mind that only 0.9 percent of our fresh water
is renewable, that increasing pollution of surface and groundwater is further reducing the
supplies of readily available clean water, and that financing by municipal governments
for the treatment of water supplies is becoming increasingly constrained. It has been
estimated that the treatment and distribution of potable water and collection of
wastewater can be approximately one third of a municipality’s energy costs. Therefore,
implementing water conservation measures to reduce demand for treated water can help
achieve energy conservation and climate change mitigation objectives.
What was Measured
Data was obtained on local water consumption from Halton Region. The region collects
water consumption data for each of the municipalities within its borders. Consumption
comes from residential, industrial, commercial and institutional users.
What was Found
Tables 8.5 and 8.6 provide historical residential and ICI/multi-residential water
consumption for Burlington, and generally show a drop in water consumption.
Comparisons between annual water use figures should be done with caution since there
are a number of factors that may skew the results. Chief among them is the effect of
temperature and rainfall on outdoor usage of water.
97
Table 8.5: Low-rise Residential Water Consumption in Burlington (m3)
Year
Residential
Per Capita
Per Capita
Daily
Consumption
(litres)
2007
2008
2009
15,622,873
13,995,372
13,844,994
93.3
82.3
80.3
256
225
220
Source: Halton Region
Table 8.6: Industrial, Commercial, Institutional and Multi-residential
Water Consumption in Burlington (m3)
Year
ICI
2007
2008
2009
7,710,863
7,035,847
6,309,451
Source: Halton Region
The most recent Canadian data from Environment Canada indicates that the average
Canadian uses 335 litres of treated water for domestic use on a daily basis. The
provincial daily average is 285 litres per day. Multi-residential water use is combined
with industrial, commercial and institutional users in Burlington through the billing
process by Burlington Hydro, so a direct comparison between Burlington and Canadian
or international residential consumption is not possible. However, Table 8.5 shows the
average daily residential consumption (for low-rise residential units only) as 220 litres per
day in 2009, below the provincial average of 285.
Figure 8.9 shows a comparison between Canadian per capita consumption of residential
water and per capita consumption in other countries. Residential consumption can be
reduced using currently available practices and fixtures. Rainwater re-use, low flow
toilets, and the use of drought tolerant planting materials are examples of methods that
can be used to reduce the amount of water consumed by residents in Burlington. Table
8.5 shows a drop in consumption from 2007 to 2009 for low rise residential, however
water usage can be related to seasonal weather patterns. Future data should show
trends on whether local conservation measures are working.
98
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 8.9: Average Daily Consumption of Residential Water
Israel
France
Sweden
Italy
Canada
United States
0
100
200
300
400
500
Daily Consumption (lpcd)
What is Happening
Halton Region Programs
The region is undertaking a number of programs to conserve water including:
•
•
•
•
•
Toilet Rebate – provide a rebate of $60 or $75 for purchasing low-flow toilets
Rain Barrel – arrange for residents to purchase at low costs
Outdoor Water Use – during the summer and as needed restricting the amount of
water people use by only permitting watering lawns on alternate days
Halton Children’s Water Festival – hosted by the region and Conservation Halton
since 2006 and provides hands-on learning about water conservation and source
protection to elementary school children
Website tips – advice for residents on how to reduce water consumption.
Source Water Protection
Conservation Halton and the Hamilton Conservation Authority work in partnership to
coordinate the source water protection plan for the combined watershed region that
includes most of Halton, Hamilton, and parts of Peel and Wellington County. Source
water protection is protecting our water resources such as lakes, rivers, and
groundwater, from contamination or overuse. Protecting the source of drinking water is
a key government initiative to protect public health.
Conclusion
There is recognition within the City of Burlington and Halton Region that groundwater,
surface water, and potable water are important environmental and health assets that
need to be monitored and cared for. The city and region, like other municipalities in the
area, are monitoring the situation and taking steps to improve surface and ground water
quality, reduce stormwater flow to local creeks, and reduce potable water consumption.
Burlington needs to be a leader in areas of water management and risks falling behind
unless local champions emerge to challenge the current standards.
99
Recommendations
1. That the city, in partnership with Conservation Halton as appropriate, undertake a
series of pilot projects on city properties using Low Impact Development stormwater
management techniques to treat stormwater runoff at its source rather than
conveying it through the traditional stormwater infrastructure.
2. That the city work with the Region of Halton to institute a comprehensive and well
publicized water conservation and efficiency strategy that includes incentives to
encourage water use reduction by residents and industry. Measures can include
fixture and appliance rebates, rainwater reuse incentives, and a water distribution
system leak detection program. The City of Guelph Water Conservation and
Efficiency Strategy can be used as a template.
100
Chapter 9: Wastewater
Introduction
The proper collection and treatment of wastewater has a major impact on the health and
quality of the life of a community. Wastewater (sewage) may be defined as the spent
water of a community, containing the wastes from domestic, industrial or commercial
use, as well as such surface or groundwater as may inadvertently enter the wastewater
system.
Domestic wastewater derives from washrooms, laundries and kitchens of dwellings,
businesses and institutions. Industrial wastewater results from processes employed in
industrial or manufacturing plants. Before an industry can discharge to the sanitary
sewer, their wastewater must meet regional and provincial criteria. This can result in the
industry having to install pre-treatment facilities. Wastewater (leachate) from closed
landfill sites and cleanouts from septic tanks are discharged directly into the treatment
plant. Surface and groundwater enter the wastewater collection system through
damaged pipe joints and sewer access covers.
The Burlington Skyway Wastewater Treatment Plant is located at 1125 Lakeshore Road
in the City of Burlington, and is operated by the Region of Halton. It is a secondary
treatment plant consisting of screening, raw sewage pumping, de-gritting, primary
clarification, activated sludge, final clarification, and two-stage anaerobic digestion. The
plant also has solids handling equipment including Dissolved Air Flotation, Waste
Activated Sludge thickening, and belt filter presses. The final effluent is seasonally
disinfected using ultra-violet irradiation prior to discharging into Hamilton Harbour.
Issue: Wastewater Effluent Quality
Why it was Measured
Chemically, wastewater is made up of 99.9 per cent water with many materials that are
either suspended or dissolved in the water. It is the small portion of wastewater,
containing many different materials, that is of concern during the treatment process. The
treated wastewater must be of such a quality that there are no public health issues, no
watercourse pollution and no negative impact on the environment.
Contaminated water is the carrying agent for disease causing viruses, bacteria and
intestinal parasites. As well, health consideration must be given to the effects of various
chemical constituents, compounds, trace elements and metals on aquatic life and on
drinking water.
What was Measured
The Regional Municipality of Halton operates the Burlington Skyway Wastewater
Treatment Plant in accordance with a Certificate of Approval (C of A) issued by the
Ministry of the Environment (MOE). The C of A lists effluent objectives and noncompliance criteria.
101
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The plant presently operates in accordance with the criteria and objectives outlined in
Table 9.1. Although failure to meet effluent objectives is not chargeable by the MOE,
every effort is made through design, construction and operation of the facility to meet
these objectives. On the other hand, if non-compliance criteria are not met, charges can
be laid by the MOE. In addition to these the region routinely monitors daily flows
(average, maximum and minimum); total monthly flow; and other chemical parameters
such as pH, TKN (total Kjeldahl nitrogen) and nitrate nitrogen.
A definition and discussion of the importance of the five parameters shown in Table 9.1
are provided following Table 9.2. It should also be noted that the criteria values in Table
9.1 are what must be achieved, while the objective values are what the plant is
encouraged to achieve.
Table 9.1: Skyway WWTP C of A Objectives and Non-Compliance Criteria
Parameter
cBOD5
Suspended
Solids
Total
Phosphorus
Ammonia
(NH3)
Objectives
Concentration Loading
(mg/L)
(kg/day)
8.0
1180
Based on
(Average)
Annual
Non-Compliance Criteria
Concentration Loading
(mg/L)
(kg/day)
10.0
1180
5.0
1180
Annual
10.0
1180
0.3
47.2
Annual
0.5
47.2
2.3 4.5
330.4/
660.8
Summer
Winter
2.8
5.6
200
CFU/100ml
330
661
E. coli 150 CFU/100ml
Monthly
CFU - Colony (bacterial) Forming Unit
What was Found
Table 9.2 below gives the monthly values during 2008 for the concentrations of the five
parameters given in Table 9.1. Those wishing further detail may consult the weekly
measurements given in Appendix B of the Skyway WWTP for 2008.
Table 9.2: Skyway WWTP Final Effluent Concentrations (Monthly Averages) 2008
Collection
Month
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
Ammonia
Nitrogen
(mg/L)
0.47
0.34
0.98
0.44
0.21
0.05
0.06
0.35
cBOD5
(mg/L)
E. coli
(CFU/
100mL)
2.4
3.0
1.4
2.3
1.1
1.8
1.1
1.5
21
32
6
32
34
102
Suspended
Solids
(mg/L)
3.2
4.7
3.2
2.5
2.9
7.0
2.1
2.8
Total
Phosphorous
(mg/L)
0.11
0.14
0.11
0.13
0.17
0.37
0.13
0.16
Collection
Month
September
October
November
December
Annual
Average
Regulatory
Limit
Number
outside limit
RAP
Ammonia
Nitrogen
(mg/L)
0.12
0.20
0.37
0.11
cBOD5
(mg/L)
1.2
<1.0
1.2
1.9
E. coli
(CFU/
100mL)
43
30
Suspended
Solids
(mg/L)
3.4
3.5
2.3
2.6
Total
Phosphorous
(mg/L)
0.18
0.21
0.20
0.09
0.30
1.7
22
3.3
0.16
2.8/5.6
10.0
200
10.0
0.5
0
0
1
0
1
2.1
0.12
0.97
Source - Skyway WWTP Annual Report 2005
It will be noted that although all monthly values are below the regulatory limits, there
were two ‘exceedences’. This will be discussed in the next section.
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) is the test that gives the most information on the
polluted strength of the wastewater. BOD is a test measuring the amount of
biodegradable material remaining in wastewater. It measures the quantity of oxygen
required for micro-organisms to degrade or reduce the organic matter in the wastewater.
It is also referred to as Carbonaceous BOD (cBOD5), reflecting the principally
carbonaceous nature of the biodegradable material. Any discharges with high BOD will
decrease the dissolved oxygen in a water body, causing stress on fish and aquatic life.
All monthly averages were well below both the criteria and objective levels. The average
BOD concentration in the incoming raw sewage was 106 mg/L and in the effluent was
1.7 mg/L for a reduction rate of 98.3% (98.5% in 2005).
Suspended Solids (SS)
Suspended solids consists of all of the floating materials in wastewater. It is an important
test of the efficiency of the clarifier/settling tanks. All monthly averages were below the
criteria and objective levels. It should be noted that the Hamilton Harbour Remedial
Action Plan (RAP) has set a final target of 2.1 mg/L to be achieved by 2015.
The average SS level in the incoming raw sewage was 154 mg/L and in the effluent was
3.3 mg/L for a reduction rate of 97.8% (96.1% in 2000).
Total Phosphorus
Phosphorus promotes the growth of aquatic plants (such as algae) in surface water. All
monthly averages for the Skyway WWTP were below the criteria and objective levels,
but there was one exceedence. However, most months total phosphorus levels are
above the Hamilton Harbour RAP final target of 0.12 mg/L.
The average phosphorus concentration in the incoming raw sewage was 3.62 mg/L and
in the effluent was 0.16 mg/L for a reduction rate of 95.5% (an improvement from 96.0%
in 2000).
103
Ammonia Nitrogen and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)
In wastewater, nitrogen is mostly in the form of ammonia (NH3), although complex
organic molecules may be present, which are measured as total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN).
The Certificate of Approval sets limits and objectives for ammonia nitrogen only.
All monthly averages were below the criteria and objectives, though one was above the
Hamilton Harbour RAP final target of 0.97 mg/L. The average ammonia nitrogen
concentration in the incoming raw sewage was 13.5 mg/L, compared to 0.30 mg/L in the
treated effluent, for a reduction rate of 97.7 % (95.6% in 2000). It should be noted that
the total Kjeldahl nitrogen was reduced by 94.3% (compared to 94.7% in 2000).
Faecal Coliforms
Faecal coliforms are a group of bacteria found in the faeces of humans and other warmblooded animals. Of particular concern is E. coli, a bacterium in the faecal coliform
group. It was a strain of E. coli, originating from cattle faecal material, which entered the
Walkerton’s water supply and caused a major epidemic. The Certificate of Approval for
the Skyway WWTP limits the level of E. coli in the effluent to 200 CFU per 100 ml.
Until 2003 the final effluent was disinfected by chlorination to destroy disease-causing
pathogens. Excessive chlorination can have an adverse environmental impact on fish
and other aquatic life. There is also a health concern with the formation of
trihalomethanes (THM) as a result of chlorine disinfection. As a result of these concerns,
the chlorine levels used were not able to lower E. coli levels to that required by the
criteria of the Certificate of Approval. Data from the 2000 annual report indicates that the
levels were often over 1000 CFU/100 ml (five times the criteria limit.)
The ultraviolet (UV) disinfection unit commissioned in May of 2003 has resulted in a
great improvement in the levels of E. coli in the final effluent. All monthly averages are
below the criteria and objective levels, and only one is above 100 CFU/100 ml.
Criteria Exceeded and Objectives Exceeded
Compliance with effluent limit criteria is usually based on a monthly or annual average.
While, as stated above, all monthly averages were within compliance limits there were
two occasions when a weekly reading was above the compliance criteria. On July 3rd
2008 the E. coli level was 308 CFU/100 ml (the compliance limit is 200), and on June
16th 2008 the total phosphorous level was 0.54 mg/L (the compliance limit is 0.50).
These readings do not mean the plant was in non-compliance as this is determined by
monthly or annual averages.
As noted in Table 9.1, the objective levels (which the plant is encouraged to achieve) are
lower than the criteria levels and so are likely to be exceeded on more occasions.
According to Appendix C of the 2008 annual report the following number of exceedences
of objective levels occurred (including the two mentioned in the preceding paragraph):
total phosphorus - 1, E. coli - 2, total suspended solids - 8. It should be noted that the
TSS parameter has the greatest difference between the compliance level and objective
level, which are 10 mg/L and 5 mg/L respectively.
104
Issue: Biosolids
Why it was Measured
Biosolids, or sludge, are collected from the various clarifiers and stored in the plant
digesters. The digesters reduce total solids content and destroy pathogenic bacteria.
What was Measured
The disposal of biosolids from the Skyway Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) is a
complex process with nomenclature that can be confusing. Biosolids are hauled from
the plant in two states: liquid or dewatered (water has been removed from the sludge by
centrifuging or other means).
What was Found
In 2008, all wastewater treatment plant biosolids in Halton were directed to either
temporary storage or applied to agricultural land for crop production. A total of 216,630
m3 of liquid biosolids was produced in 2008.
At the Skyway WWTP, 41,914 m3 digested biosolids were produced in 2008; of which
2,356 m3 were taken directly to agricultural lands, and the remaining 38,722 m3 were
taken to Halton’s W.A. Bill Johnson Biosolids Management Centre (BMC) located in
Oakville for temporary storage and dewatering. Skyway also produced 15,762 wet
tonnes of dewatered biosolids.
What is Happening
Prior to agricultural land application, the majority of liquid biosolids are temporarily stored
at the BMC in Oakville. Also, dewatered biosolids are temporarily stored at American
Water Services Power-Gro facility in Niagara Region.
In Halton, 1,512 hectares at 558 separate MOE licensed spreading sites received
biosolids for crop production. Liquid biosolids were spread on 744 hectares of land, while
dewatered biosolids were spread of 768 hectares.
Issue: Effluent Quantity
Why it was Measured
One of the limits to community growth is its ability to safely collect, treat and dispose of
its wastewater. If limiting such growth is not a viable planning option, then any servicing
strategy must expand to meet these needs. Effluent quantity and its relation to existing
plant capacity is an important parameter.
What was Measured
Data on flows at the Skyway Wastewater Treatment Plant have been obtained for the
period 1998 - 2008, together with information on by-pass events for the same period.
105
What was Found
Flow Measurement
The current design capacity of the Skyway WWTP is 118,000 m3/day with a design peak
flow rating of 236,000 m3/day. As of 2008, the plant is operating at 104% of design
capacity.
Table 9.3: Average and Maximum Daily Flow Rates 1998 – 2005
Year
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
Percent
Utilization
91
87
95
98
98/78*
78
81
83
88
91
104
Average Daily
Flow (m 3)
85,409
81,530
88,810
90,149
92,491
92,281
95,679
97,909
103,930
107,841
127,100
Maximum Daily Flow
(m 3)
193,620
178,200
170,207
191,809
174,871
175,738
197,539
204,099
211,970
231,891
235,300
*Pre/post expansion values
Source: Skyway WWTP performance reports
By-pass Events
A by-pass event occurs when the system is unable to collect or process a volume of raw
wastewater, which therefore passes from the system in an untreated or partially treated
form.
A by-pass may occur at a pumping station or at the plant itself. In accordance with the
Certificate of Approval, all by-passes must be reported to the MOE recording the time,
location, duration, and estimated quantity of each by-pass event along with the reasons
for the event.
A complete listing of the 19 by-pass at the Skyway WWTP events which occurred in
2008 at the four Pumping Station By-pass events is given in Table 8-3 and 8-4 of the
2008 Skyway WWTP annual report. A brief summary is given here:
1
Eighteen by-pass events caused by heavy precipitation and/or snowmelt and one
by equipment failure. Total by-pass volume was 167,900 m3 and all events were
“secondary by-pass,” where sewage exits the system following primary
(clarification) treatment.
2
Four by-pass events took place at pumping stations (two at station 8, and one
each at stations 10 and 21.). Two by-passes were caused by heavy precipitation,
one caused by sewer problems, and one caused by heavy snow, equipment
problems and a power failure.
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The total by-pass volume measured represents 0.37% of the total flow through the plant.
Table 9.4 below gives by-pass numbers and volumes for 1998 through 2008.
Table 9.4: By-pass Events - Skyway WWTP
Year
Total Flow
(m3)
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
31 131 052
29 588 270
31 893 960
32 770 630
33 553 020
33 682 565
35 029 260
35 736 785
37 200 828
39 405 020
44 698 700
Number
of Bypass
Events
35
9
13
18
12
15
7
21
15
8
19
Volume
By-passed
(m3)
Percentage
By-passed
(%)
1 367 659
63 576
93 450
109 780
19 650
110 660
74 320
232 910
217 740
52 900
167 900
4.4
0.2
0.3
0.3
0.06
0.3
0.2
0.65
0.58
0.13
0.37
*In comparing this data to the bypass discussion above it must be remembered that 1m
is equal to 1000 L.
Source: Burlington Skyway WWTP annual reports.
3
Conclusion
The region is commended for consistently exceeding both the criteria and objectives in
the Certificate of Approval for effluent levels. As well, the levels of most parameters are
already approaching the RAP targets for 2015 (suspended solids remain a problem, with
a further reduction of almost 50% needed to meet RAP targets). The introduction of UV
disinfection of the effluent has led to marked and consistent reductions in the level of E.
coli in the effluent.
The bypass percentage remained at or below 0.3% until 2005, when it more that
doubled to 0.65%. It has since returned to 0.13% in 2007, and 0.37% in 2008, more
typical of the last 10 years.
In 2008, the plant was operating above design capacity (104%). In 2009 the flow levels
dropped to 116 MLD, or 98% of capacity. Plans are underway for expansion of the
Skyway Wastewater Treatment Plant. A study under the Class Environmental
Assessment Schedule C has been completed for the Skyway WWTP expansion from
118 MLD to 140 MLD. This expansion is now moving into the implementation of design
and construction phase. The expansion is anticipated to be in service in 2014.
Recommendation
There are no recommendations that relate to this chapter.
107
Chapter 10: Climate Change
Introduction
A report on the state of the Burlington environment would not be complete without a
discussion of a global event, which will continue to change many aspects of our
environment. This event is climate change. Recent weather occurrences have greatly
increased public awareness of, and concern, about climate change. In this chapter
information is provided on the likely causes of climate change, graphical data on climate
trends, local impacts of climate change and recommendations for actions the City of
Burlington and/or the Region of Halton can undertake.
The overwhelming majority of the world’s climate scientists agree that human activity is
responsible for changing the climate. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC) is one of the largest bodies of international scientists ever
assembled to study a scientific issue, and it has concluded that most of the warming
observed during the past 50 years is attributable to human activities. The IPCC's findings
have been publicly endorsed by the national academies of science of all G-8 countries,
as well as those of China, India and Brazil. The Royal Society of Canada – together with
the national academies of fifteen other nations – issued a joint statement on climate
change that stated, in part: "The work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC) represents the consensus of the international scientific community on
climate change science. We recognize IPCC as the world's most reliable source of
information on climate change.”
Figure 10.1: Global Disasters from 1900 to 2004
Source: International Strategy for Disaster Reduction
108
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV It can be seen in Figure 10.1 that while overall temperatures fluctuate greatly, there is an
upward trend that mirrors the increase in carbon dioxide concentration. The third aspect
of the graph shows that overall carbon emissions have increased primarily due to the
burning of fossil fuels, but also changes in land use that have removed large areas of
trees, which previously removed carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during the process
of photosynthesis.
The magnitude of warming during the 20th century is the greatest experienced in the
past 1,000 years. The rate of warming anticipated for the 21st century is likely to be the
most rapid change ever in recorded history. Global surface temperatures have increased
about 0.6°C on average since the beginning of the 20th century, with nighttime
minimums increasing more than daytime maximums. These changes may seem small,
but the average temperatures in the last ice age were only 5°C cooler than they are
today.
Figure 10.2 - Global Disasters from 1900 to 2004.
Source: International Strategy for Disaster Reduction 2005
This gradual warming of the earth has far greater implications than simply warmer
summers and milder winters. Figure 10.2 indicates that hydro-meteorological disasters
(e.g. floods, storms) have increased greatly in comparison to geological disasters (e.g.
earthquakes) and biological (e.g. viral epidemics). Observed global trends include:
•
•
•
•
Glaciers have been retreating at an alarming rate.
Northern hemisphere sea-ice has decreased by 10 to 15% since the 1950s
and Arctic summer sea-ice thickness has decreased by 40%.
Global sea levels have risen between 10 to 25 centimetres largely due to
thermal expansion of the oceans and to a lesser extent due to the melting of
glaciers.
Rainfall has increased in the mid and high latitudes but decreased in the
subtropics and tropics.
It is noted that the technical summary for the IPCC second assessment report indicated
that “data and analyses of (weather) extremes related to climate change are sparse.”
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Climate change impacts are not uniform across Canada as illustrated in Figure 10.3.
Northern regions of the country are feeling the most severe impacts, with warmer
temperatures melting permafrost, changing the distribution of plant and animal life, and
melting sea-ice. These changes seriously threaten the livelihoods of many northern
communities. Canada’s coastal communities, forests, agriculture, and fisheries are also
at risk from climate change.
Figure 10.3 Potential Canadian Climate Change Impacts
Source: Iain Myrans and Glenn Miller, Canadian Urban Institute, for the Canadian Institute of Planners Conference
Planning for Climate Change: Weathering Uncertainty. Iqaluit, Nunavut, July 20 – 23, 2006
In southern Canada, warming has been less pronounced but has still led to the following
observed changes:
• Surface temperatures have warmed by 0.5 to 1.5°C in southern Canada during
the past century.
• Precipitation on average has increased in Canada by about 12% (5 to 35% in
southern Canada) during the period 1950-1998. Annual snowfall has been
significantly decreasing over southern Canada since 1950, although in Ontario
during this same period, the trends have not been as clear.
• Despite overall increases in annual precipitation, six widespread and severe
droughts occurred over southern Ontario between 1936 and 1998. The droughts
of 1988 and 1998 were both consistent with climate change scenarios for the
Great Lakes region that predict greater variability in climate patterns.
110
The number of growing days - consecutive days when average temperatures are
more than 5°C - is increasing. Southern Canada is experiencing fewer extreme
low temperatures and longer frost free periods, thereby lengthening the growing
season.
The graph below illustrates how a severe rainfall event that occurs once every 40 years
may occur every 20 years by 2020. The Canadian climate model projects that the
intensity of extreme precipitation events may increase by an average 10mm across
Canada.
Figure 10.4
Source: Environment Canada 2005
Figure 10.5 Toronto Annual Temperature
Source: Climate Research Branch, Environment Canada 2006
Since the late 1800’s the temperature in the Toronto area has risen on average 2.7oC
and is expected to rise an additional 2 oC before the end of the century.
111
Issue: Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gases are gaseous components of the atmosphere that contribute to the
‘greenhouse effect’. Some greenhouse gases occur naturally in the atmosphere, while
others result from human activities. The major natural greenhouse gases are water
vapour, which causes about 36-70% of the greenhouse effect on earth (not including
clouds); carbon dioxide, which causes 9-26%; methane, which causes 4-9%; and ozone,
which causes 3-7%. Other greenhouse gases include, but are not limited to, nitrous
oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydro fluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons and chlorofluorocarbons.
Human activity raises levels of greenhouse gases primarily by releasing carbon dioxide,
but human influences on other gases, e.g., methane, are not negligible, as the effect of
methane is 21 times more powerful than that of carbon dioxide.
Greenhouse gas emissions from industry, transportation, agriculture and fuel
consumption for heating and electrical power generation have played a major role in the
recently observed climate change. Carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and three
groups of fluorinated gases (but not CFCs) are the subject of the Kyoto Protocol, which
came into force in 2005. CFCs are controlled by the Montreal Protocol, motivated by
their effect on stratospheric ozone rather than by their effect on greenhouse warming.
Note that ozone depletion has only a minor role in greenhouse warming, though the two
processes often are confused in the popular media. There are signs that stratospheric
ozone is beginning to return to previous levels.
What was Measured
The amount of carbon dioxide (tonnes eCO2) emitted by Canada and the City of
Burlington.
Why it was Measured
Greenhouse gases are important to be measured because they absorb and re-emit
infrared radiation, warming the earth’s surface thus contributing to climate change.
What was Found
Canada’s GHG emissions increased from 1990 to 2003 but started to level off from 2003
onwards. The federal government has announced a 17% reduction target from 2005
levels by 2020.
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 10.6 Canada’s GHG Emissions 1990 – 2008
Source: Canada’s 2008 Greenhouse Gas Inventory, Environment Canada
In Burlington, community GHG emissions increased by 38%, but the population only
increased by 16%. This is an increase of 18% in per capita community emissions. Note
this is the most up-to-date information on the City of Burlington’s community-wide
emissions.
Table 10.1 Emissions per capita - Community Comparison Figures
Year
1994
2000
% Increase
Population
128,910
150,000
16
Emissions (tonnes eCO2)
Per Capita Emissions
(tonnes eCO2)
1,370,289
1,896,956
38
11
13
18
Source: City of Burlington, Partners for Climate Protection Program, Inventory of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, April 23,
2004, Table 11, Community Comparison
The breakdown of community emissions by sector is shown in Figure 10.7 overleaf. The
residential sector has the highest emissions followed by the commercial, industrial and
transportation sectors. For the province, the transportation sector is the largest source
of emissions, followed by industry.
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Figure 10.7 Community Emissions by Sector (2000)
Community Emissions by Sector
(2000)
18%
Residential
1%
Commercial
36%
Industrial
17%
Transportation
28%
Waste
Source: City of Burlington, Partners for Climate Protection Program, Inventory of Greenhouse
Gas Emissions, April 23, 2004, Tables 8, Community Emissions by Sector (2000)
Emissions from city operations increased 28% from 1994 to 2003, however, emissions
on a per capita basis remained relatively constant. It is important to note that emissions
from city operations constitute less than 1% of the community’s emissions.
Table 10.2 Emissions from City Operations
Year
Population
Emissions (tonnes eCO2)
Per Capita Emissions
(tonnes eCO2)
1994
128,910
10,448
2003
150,000
12,621
.081
.084
Source: City of Burlington, Partners for Climate Protection Program, Inventory of Greenhouse Gas Emissions,
April 23, 2004, Table 8, Corporate Comparison Figures
Under city operations, emissions from buildings increased between 1994 and 2008,
while emissions from the vehicle fleet and streetlights declined.
Figure 10.8 Emissions Broken Down by City Operation
Equivalent Co@ (tonnes)
Corporate Emmissions
8000
6000
Buildings
Vehicle Fleet
4000
Streetlights
2000
0
1994
2003
Year
Source: City of Burlington, Partners for Climate Protection Program, Inventory of Greenhouse Gas
Emissions, April 23, 2004, Tables 2 and 9
114
What is Happening
City of Burlington Operations
In 2007, the City of Burlington established a corporate goal of reducing per capita
emissions by 20% below the per capita emissions of 1994 (.08 tonnes of equivalent
carbon dioxide) to .06 tonnes. Based on a projected population of 177,100 in 2012 this
would equate to 10,626 tonnes of (e)CO2. In 2003, 12,621 tonnes were emitted. In
2008, it was estimated city operations were responsible for 11,500 tonnes of GHG
emissions, so the city appears to be progressing toward its 2012 target.
Figure 10.9: Burlington Corporate Emissions
2012 Corporate GHG Emissions
Forecast and Reduction Target
Tonnes of eCO2
20000
15000
Emission
Forecast
10000
Emissions
Reduction
5000
0
1994
2003
2008
2012
Year
Source: City of Burlington, Corporate Energy Management Program, June 10, 2010
Greenhouse gas emission reductions have been achieved through a range of city
actions, such as the installation of energy efficient traffic signals, rightsizing vehicles, the
use of hybrid vehicles, and energy conservation measures in city facilities such as
lighting retrofits, conversion of emergency exit signs to LED fixtures, installation of
motion sensors, use of renewable energy and more efficient heating, ventilation and air
conditioning equipment.
The city is looking to further reduce emissions through the implementation of the
sustainable building policy, green fleet transition strategy, the development of a
corporate energy management plan, and use of renewable energy such as seasonal
heating of pool water at the Tansley Woods Community Centre through solar thermal
collectors. More details of these actions are provided in other chapters of SOER IV.
The city has also established an energy policy for the development and implementation
of a comprehensive corporate energy management program. Energy audits on city
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV facilities will enable recommendations on actions for improving energy efficiency and are
expected to be completed by mid-2011.
An energy tracking system is also expected to be in place by mid-2011 to monitor energy
usage by city facilities. A city-wide building automation system will be implemented in
early 2011 to enable more effective control of indoor environments and reduce energy
usage. Based on this information a corporate energy management plan can be
developed.
The last data on Burlington community emissions is from 2000. More up-to-date
information is necessary. It should be noted that community emissions are 100 times
greater than emissions from city operations.
The city started to involve and educate the community with the Take Action Burlington Community Climate Change Summit held on May 6th 2010 and a subsequent
environmental event geared to families on World Environment Day on June 5th 2010.
Topics covered were healthy communities and sustainable transportation, energy
conservation, and green buildings and renewable energy. Both events were well
received and a number of ideas for moving forward were provided. The city intends to
follow-up on the event with further actions in 2011.
It should be noted that the city greatly helps the community in a number of ways to
reduce emissions, such as supporting active transportation to reduce car usage,
enforcement of its anti-idling by-law, and the implementation of its Cycling Master Plan.
Region of Halton
The Region of Halton has recognized sustainability as an important issue and has
developed a sustainability policy under Sustainable Halton. With support from its Intermunicipal Advisory Committee on Sustainability, it is in the process of developing a
sustainability lens to improve decision making and a compendium of best municipal
sustainability practices that could be implemented.
Some climate change initiatives are underway by the Region. It has established a goal
to reduce corporate energy usage by 15%. To achieve this goal a number of initiatives
have been undertaken including the implementation of a green procurement policy,
audits of existing buildings leading to energy reduction projects, green building design
using life cycle costing, and reduction in fleet energy consumption. There is a plan to
provide annual energy consumption numbers by early 2011.
Issue: Possible Climate Change Effects in Burlington
and Adaptation Measures
As presented earlier in this chapter (Figure 10.3), climate change will cause varying
effects across this country and the Burlington area is expected to experience increased
flooding, river erosion, and severe storm events. This section will provide more detailed
information regarding the expected impacts of climate change on the community of
Burlington and the measures in place to adapt to or prepare for these impacts. The
implementation of adaptation measures is a recognition that our community is already
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV beginning to feel the effects of climate change and that a plan should be in place to
respond to and prepare for these effects.
What was Measured
This section provides information on the projected impacts of climate change on the City
of Burlington and surrounding area and the measures in place to adapt to these impacts.
Why it was Measured
It is important for us to measure these impacts in order to determine whether adaptation
measures that are in place to respond to or prepare for these impacts are effective or
sufficient.
What was Found
Water
Intense rainfalls have an impact on the quality of water. It results in increased pollutants
such as heavy metals, and industrial and agricultural waste being discharged into Lake
Ontario where the water intake is located. The heavy rain will also contribute to stream
and riverbank erosion, which contributes to water turbidity.
Warmer weather will result in warmer lake temperature, which provides a favourable
condition for the growth of algae. This in turn contributes to noticeable taste and odour
issues. While climate change is expected to bring about heavy rains and floods that
could overwhelm operations from time to time, it could also damage sewer infrastructure
leading to costly repairs and environmental damage.
Health
More extreme weather events can result in more injuries and even death. The 1998 ice
storm in eastern Ontario, for instance, caused the death of 28 people and injuries to a
further 945. (Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada 2005).
Climate change can contribute to air pollution levels in several ways. Hotter summers
and prolonged heat waves mean that more people turn to air conditioning for comfort,
which increases energy consumption and releases more pollutants from fossil fuel
electricity generation. Higher air temperatures speed up the chemical reaction between
nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to form ground-level
ozone (O3), which is the primary ingredient in smog. Numerous studies link short-term
ozone exposure to an increased risk of death. Air pollution contributes to reduced lung
function, acute and chronic bronchitis and asthma attacks. Air pollution has also been
linked to lung cancer, heart arrhythmias, heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
Similarly, severe heat waves can also cause severe health effects and lead to premature
death.
Higher levels of CO2 in the atmosphere have been linked to an increase in plant pollen
and fungi. This will result in an increase in allergies and asthma.
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Energy/Electricity
Like other municipalities, Burlington is increasingly dependent on a reliable and
uninterrupted supply of electricity. Current methods of producing and distributing energy
are already vulnerable to heat waves and severe storms. Climate change will place even
greater strain on our energy system by altering demand patterns (particularly peak
demand in the summer) and threatening distribution networks. The impacts of climate
change on the energy sector can be grouped into three main areas: generation and
production; transmission and distribution, and energy demand.
Buildings
While structural damage to buildings from storm surges and inclement weather is not a
new phenomenon, the increasing frequency and intensity of storms can result in greater
damage to buildings, necessitating expensive and unexpected repairs. Heavy rainfall
can lead to flash flooding and sewer backups, damaging buildings and homes as
occurred during the Peterborough flood in July 2004, as well as the southern Ontario
storm of August 19, 2005. In addition to short-term water damage, long term problems
with moulds and mildew could develop, especially if average annual temperatures and
precipitation amounts rise.
Heavy snowfalls expected as a result of climate change can lead to the collapse of
building roofs, especially wide-span roofs, when weight exceeds design snow loads. In
2000, for instance, heavy snowfall led to the collapse of a mall roof in Sarnia, killing one
woman and injuring several others. Extreme snowfall can also lead to costly and
destructive ‘ice damming’. Following the January 1999 snowstorm in southern Ontario,
the insurance industry fielded damage claims worth $50 million. The majority of the
damage resulted from ice damming, which occurs when ice building up in eaves troughs
causes melting snow to back up under shingles and into the attic.
Urban Ecosystem
A healthy natural environment is an important component of a healthy city. Burlington
has more than 129 city owned parks, and approximately 160,000 trees in parks and
along streets, providing about 31% of canopy coverage for the urban part of the city.
These urban green spaces and trees absorb rain water and reduce runoff, absorb air
pollutants and CO2, provide shade, reduce ambient temperatures in summer, and serve
as habitat for wildlife. However, vast expanses of concrete and asphalt, compacted soils,
fragmentation of natural environments, pollution and the urban heat island effect place
Burlington’s urban ecosystem under stress.
Changing weather patterns under climate change are expected to place Burlington’s
natural areas under even greater stress, affecting tree health, wildlife habitat, plant
communities, flood control, and water quality. Heat stress is a major problem,
particularly for newly planted trees, which require regular watering to survive. Heat stress
is typically at its worst during the day, but can also affect plants at night, which is a
critical time for many plant growth mechanisms.
Hotter summers also lead to a greater concentration of ground-level ozone, which can
be detrimental to plant growth. Elevated concentrations can damage tree leaves and
slow down growth. Ozone in combination with extreme heat and drought leaves plants
more vulnerable to pathogenic fungi and pests such as the Asian long horned beetle and
the emerald ash borer.
118
What is Happening
The city has not completed a comprehensive adaptation preparedness plan to respond
to the effects of climate change. However, the city and other lead agencies do have
certain measures in place to help the community to respond effectively to the impacts of
climate change.
City of Burlington
The city is working to engage the public on climate change, such as its efforts to host the
community climate change summit in 2010. It is a member of the GTA Clean Air
Council, led by the Clean Air Partnership in Toronto which includes participation and
representation from all levels of government, focusing on air quality and climate change
issues. The city was also an active member of the Halton Partners for Clean Air and
helped to develop the current Clean Air Plan for the partnership.
The city encourages low impact development through the use of lot level controls by
reducing grades, infiltration trenches, soak away pits, parking lot storage, and increased
stormwater management pond capacity. These measures help reduce flooding risk
downstream. City staff work closely with Conservation Halton and the region to reduce
community flood risks as well as work with homeowners on a flood reduction initiative.
Under its Emergency Plan as required under the provincial Emergency Management and
Civil Protection Act, the City of Burlington annually undertakes a risk assessment of
business continuity plans, which includes dealing with severe weather events. Due to a
couple of recent instances of localized flooding, Fire staff are undertaking training in swift
water rescues. Furthermore, a homeowner guide completed in partnership with the
region and local municipalities, has been distributed to assist residents in planning for
emergencies, including severe weather events.
The city also recently approved an Urban Forestry Master Plan that includes actions to
improve the health of local trees, which will help them survive the effects of climate
change, such as an increase in local pests and drought conditions.
The city responds to heat events by extending the hours of operation for public
swimming at its community pools and has in the past provided cooling centres for
residents in community centres, however, these were not well attended.
With respect to energy preparedness, the city is becoming more involved in renewable
energy generation, such as the use of solar thermal panels to augment seasonal heating
of pool water at the Tansley Woods Community Centre, the installation of a solar wall in
the new fire station for more efficient heating, as well as working with the Halton District
School Board and Burlington Hydro to install solar energy panels at the new Alton
Secondary School and Community Centre and new fire station.
Burlington Hydro (owned by City of Burlington) is working on implementing a smart grid
system known as “GridSmartCity” with an intelligent distribution system to better support
local generation. This smart grid will include intelligent switches (that test faults and
issues alerts) with the ability to switch power back on in less than 30 seconds and smart
metering. Eventually there is expected to be local storage of electricity on the grid. They
are also promoting the use of electrical vehicles and renewable energy.
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Region of Halton
The Region of Halton’s Health Department has undertaken several measures to protect
the health of our community, such as:
♦
♦
♦
The development of a comprehensive air quality program directed at reducing air
pollutant emissions throughout Halton;
The issuance of Smog Advisory and Heat/Cold Alerts, to 450 agencies so they
can respond appropriately to any problems that may arise; and,
The development and distribution of public awareness programs toward
understanding the health impacts of Climate Change and measures that can be
undertaken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation measures.
The region has a number of programs to support water conservation (see chapter 8)
such as the provision of toilet rebates and rain barrel sales.
The region has implemented measures at its water treatment plants drawing lakewater
to minimize the taste and odour produced by algae blooms. The region (Wastewater
Services) also participates as a member on the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Cities
Initiative to support initiatives to protect the health of the Great Lakes. This organization
targets issues such as the impact of localized storms on infrastructure and solutions to
overcome them, and the development of comprehensive wastewater approaches to deal
with phosphates, agricultural run-off, and near shore impact from non-point sources.
Conservation Halton
With more localized intense rainfall events Conservation Halton is starting to improve
meteorological collection of data and intensify precipitation collection on a more localized
level to have a greater knowledge of flooding trends and to prepare mitigation plans.
Conclusion
Effective action on climate change addresses the need to reduce emissions of
greenhouse gases through measures such as energy conservation (mitigation).
Strategies are also needed to cope with climate changes that are already underway and
impacting our natural and built environment (adaptation).
The Partners for Climate Protection program is a partnership between the Federation of
Canadian Municipalities and ICLEI’s Cities for Climate Change Protection. They have
developed a five-milestone approach for reducing greenhouse gas emissions (mitigation)
including:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Create a GHG emissions inventory and forecast.
Set an emissions reduction target.
Develop a local action plan.
Implement the local action plan or a set of activities
Monitor progress and report audits
This program applies to both city operations and the community itself.
Burlington and Region of Halton are both members of this partnership.
The City of
The city has completed the first milestone, half the second milestone and parts of the
fourth milestone, including the completion of an emissions inventory and forecasted
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- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV emissions from both its operations and community sources. It has established a target
for reducing emissions from city operations by 20% on a per capita basis from 1994 by
2012 (it appears this target should be achieved). A target needs to be established for
beyond 2012 and a target should also be established for the whole community.
The city is undertaking actions to help manage their energy usage, such as the
implementation of an energy tracking system and a building automation system;
however, they still need to develop a corporate energy management plan.
The city works with Burlington Hydro to promote the importance of energy conservation
and supports active transportation initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Burlington Hydro also delivers incentive programs. The Take Action Burlington climate
change summit was a good initiative to engage the community on climate change, but
more work is needed, such as the completion of a community action plan to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions.
Some actions to minimize or prevent the negative impacts of climate change are being
addressed but there is no overall adaptation plan in place. This should be investigated in
more depth on how expected changes in weather and climate are likely to impact the city
and region and develop a plan to reduce the vulnerability of its inhabitants and critical
infrastructure. These initiatives can range from new design standards for critical
infrastructure to better withstand storms, to planting of trees and shrubs that are more
tolerant of temperature extremes, and to the implementation of distributed and
renewable energy systems to reduce vulnerability to blackouts.
Recommendations
1. That the city and the region complete the five milestones under the Partners for
Climate Protection program.
2. That the city complete the following:
• develop and implement a corporate action plan with a more aggressive corporate
target (at a minimum the federal 17% reduction from 2005 by 2020) for reducing
CO2 emissions;
• establish a working group to follow-up on the Take Action Burlington – Climate
Change Summit to further engage the public and help develop a community
action plan and reduction target; and,
• track and monitor corporate and community progress on reducing greenhouse
gas emissions on an annual basis.
3. That the city and region investigate in more depth how expected changes in weather
and climate are likely to affect their operations and develop an adaptation plan to
mitigate the damages of climate change and reduce the vulnerability of Burlington’s
inhabitants, critical infrastructure and environment.
121
Chapter 11: Sustainable Buildings
Introduction
Modern sustainability initiatives speak to an integrated and synergistic approach in the
design of buildings. The practices and techniques to reduce the environmental impact of
built form are evolving and there are a variety of solutions. Some of the key principles in
achieving green developments include: location, compact form (density, use), street
pattern, alternative forms of transportation, renewable energy, water efficiency, waste
management, parking management, and green networks.
From the environmental point of view, the best location for new development is within, or
very close to existing development. For example, infill sites are usually within a city or a
suburban neighbourhood where an interconnected grid of streets, retail areas, and good
transit service already exist. A compact form of development not only saves agricultural
land and natural features, it also provides much shorter distances between destinations
within the urban area, further reducing the greenhouse gas emissions from
transportation. Compact form is also represented by mixed-use developments as
opposed to single land uses. To achieve a sustainable transportation network, streets
should be located preferably on a grid around small- sized blocks to support walking and
cycling.
One of the most discussed topics in terms of building green is the use of renewable
energy. This is energy generated from natural resources – such as sunlight, wind, rain,
tides and geothermal heat.
Priorities in terms of water efficiency are to manage surface water and flood risk,
encourage efficient use of water, and to protect watercourses. Through the design of
new development, the focus should be not only on capturing the stormwater, but reusing
it as grey water on site.
Green waste planning and management reduces our use of natural resources through
actions such as re-use and recycling. It also enables us to recover value and energy
from materials we use. It transforms the way we see materials such as sewage, which
requires high levels of energy for treatment but can also be a valuable energy source.
Green developments increase parking efficiency by sharing, regulating and pricing;
using off-site parking facilities; and improving walking and cycling conditions. The use of
permeable pavement, preferably with heat reflective properties and bio-retention swales
for treatment of runoff from parking lots can also be incorporated into the design of a
green development.
Green networks are meant as urban networks of wildlife habitat, community gardens,
urban farms, parks, green streets and farmers' markets. Urban nature is important not
just for human health, but also for the health of the wildlife that shares our city spaces.
Further, other principles being considered for green buildings include material efficiency,
indoor environmental quality, and the optimization of building operations and
maintenance.
122
Issue: Green Buildings in Burlington
Why it was Measured
Buildings consume large amounts of energy and water, as well as land and natural
resources. They also produce a lot of waste going to landfill and air emissions. Due to
these facts, it is important to focus on building more sustainable developments.
What was Measured
There are several rating systems used through the development industry to measure
sustainability of the built form. The most common rating system used in the last few
years in North America is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). It
was decided to use this rating system to identify the number of buildings that were
constructed to these standards in Burlington.
LEED was developed in 1994 by scientist Robert K. Watson, who was leading a broadbased consensus process which included non-profit organizations, government
agencies, engineers, architects, developers, builders, manufacturers and other industry
leaders. LEED was created to accomplish the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Define “green building” by establishing a common standard of measurement
Promote integrated, whole-building design practices
Recognize environmental leadership in the building industry
Stimulate green competition
Raise consumer awareness of green building benefits
Transform the building market
LEED is a third-party certification program and an internationally accepted benchmark
for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. In 2002,
Canada formed the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) and in July 2003 obtained
an exclusive licence from the US Green Building Council to adapt the LEED rating
system to Canadian circumstances.
There are several rating systems within LEED Canada: new construction; commercial
interiors; core and shell; existing buildings; homes; and neighbourhood developments.
The most commonly used is LEED for New Construction. Through LEED certification,
the building’s rating is based on required prerequisites and a variety of credits in the
following six categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere;
Materials and Resources; Indoor Environmental Quality; and Innovation and Design.
Certain rating systems include additional relevant categories. Buildings can qualify for
four levels of certification: certified, silver, gold, and platinum.
What was Found
To date, three buildings in Burlington are completed and have achieved Gold and Silver
certification – see the first three entries in the table overleaf. Thirteen other projects
have been registered to achieve LEED accreditation:
123
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV Table 11.1: LEED buildings in Burlington
Project
Address
LEED
Canada
Category
LEED level
Building type
Ownership
Union Gas
4475
Mainway
New
Construction
1.0
Gold
September
18, 2009
Office building
Private
Mountain
Equipment
Coop
Brant Street
New
Construction
1.0
Gold
January 6,
2010
New retail
store
Private
3115
Harvester
Road
Core and
Shell 1.0
Silver
June 29,
2010
New
speculative
office building
Private
5045 South
Service
Road
Commercial
Interiors 1.0
New office
building
Private
1827
Ironstone
Drive
Commercial
Interiors 1.0
New fire
station
Government
– City of
Burlington
680 Plains
Road West
New
Construction
1.0
Building
addition Camilla and
Peter Dalglish
Atrium &
building
renovations
Government Province of
Ontario
2101
Fairview
Street
New
Construction
1.0
Renovation to
station
Government Province of
Ontario
551 Maple
Avenue
New
Construction
1.0
New
residential
apartment
building
Private
1201
Appleby Line
New
Construction
1.0
2 new ice
pads
Government
– City of
Burlington
McMaster
University
4350 South
Service
Road
New
Construction
1.0
Lecture halls
and
classrooms
University McMaster
Burlington
Transit
3322
Harvester
Road
New
Construction
1.0
Expansion &
renovation of
administration
&maintenance
facility
Government
– City of
Burlington
Locust Street
New
Construction
1.0
New theatre
Government
– City of
Burlington
Sun Life
Insurance
TD Insurance
Fire station #8
Royal
Botanical
Gardens
Burlington
GO station
Strata
Condominium
Appleby
Arena
Burlington
Performing
Arts Centre
124
Project
Address
Appleby Mall
5111 New
Street
Cama
Woodlands
159 Panin
Road
Bridgewater
by Minto
2042-2058
Lakeshore
Road
LEED
Canada
Category
LEED level
Commercial
Interiors 1.0
New
Construction
1.0
New
Construction
1.0
Building type
Ownership
Retail mall
Private
Nursing home
Private
Mixed use
Private
Source: Canada Green Building Council LEED list June 30, 2010
This list may not indicate all of the registered projects because CaGBC publishes only
the projects for which the consent of each project's primary contact person was received.
Therefore, there might be other projects that are LEED registered. There are other
buildings in Burlington that are not LEED certified or LEED registered, but feature green
design measures:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Alton Secondary School, Library & Community Centre (under construction)
Appleby Woods condominiums
Canada Centre for Inland Waters
Gateway Townes in Aldershot
Ironstone condominiums (proposed)
Oakwood retirement community
What is Happening
From the list of projects in Table 11.1, it can be seen that the City of Burlington has
initiated sustainable design of its own facilities, namely the fire station, arena, transit
facility, performing arts centre and community centre. Solar thermal heating was
installed at the Tansley Woods Community Centre (90 solar panels), and energy audits
have been undertaken at city arenas. A solar wall and solar energy (PV) panels are
planned for the new fire station. Solar energy (PV) panels will also be part of the Alton
Secondary School, Library and Community Centre project. Energy audits are planned
for other city buildings and an energy project coordinator has been established so that
the city can identify energy saving projects.
The city recently adopted a green building policy targeting LEED Silver for all new city
facilities and major retrofits greater than 500 m2. This is a trend recently observed in
many other municipalities; the reasoning is that the municipalities should act as leaders
in sustainable development.
Some municipalities offer incentives for green buildings built by the private sector, such
as a reduction in development charges (Town of Caledon) or fast-tracking green projects
(City of Chicago). Other municipalities require all new buildings to comply with certain
green standards (City of Toronto – Green Roofs).
125
Issue: Home Renovations – ecoEnergy Retrofit Program
What was Measured
The ecoEnergy Retrofit rebate program offered by the federal and provincial
governments began on April 1st, 2007, with the federal program ending on March 2010
and the provincial program ending March 2011. These grants were offered to
homeowners across Canada and the uptake of the program provided a measure of
homeowner interest in Burlington in retrofitting homes for energy efficiency.
Why it was Measured
The number of ecoEnergy Retrofit rebates in Burlington was measured. Across Canada
approximately 1 in 20 homes (5%) applied for a pre-retrofit energy evaluation by an
accredited energy audit consultant. As of February 22, 2010, 576,455 evaluations had
been completed. Based on national averages approximately 40% have or will shortly
receive a refund up to $5,000 from the federal program and $5,000 from the provincial
program to help cover their retrofit costs. As of February 22, 2010, the total value of
incentives paid by the federal government in Canada was $289M. The average federal
grant amount has been $1,300, which is then matched by a provincial government
refund for Ontario residents.
What was Measured
Statistics of ecoEnergy rebates by neighbourhoods are shown in Table 11.2.
Table 11.2: EcoEnergy Rebates in Burlington
Pre-retrofit
evaluations
Dwellings
606
5,820
10.4
1,291
10,851
11.9
Downtown Central (Brant & Freeman)
881
12,413
7.1
Roseland
479
5,230
9.2
East Burlington (Shoreacres,
Appleby, Uptown, Orchard)
1,254
15,905
7.9
NE Burlington (Palmer, Headon,
Milcroft, Alton, East Rural)
1,434
11,233
5,945
61,452
Neighbourhood
South Aldershot (Bayview & LaSalle)
NW Burlington (N Aldershot, Rural
West, Tyandaga, Brant Hills,
Mountainview)
City Total
%
12.8
9.7
Sources: City of Burlington Planning District Statistical Data – dwelling construction dates ecoENERGY
Program Support, National Resources Canada
126
What was Found
In Burlington 5,945 of 61,452 homes more than four years old had a pre-retrofit
evaluation done by February 2010. Applying the national average of 40% of
homeowners that have completed audits and upgraded their homes, it is estimated that
2,338 rebates have been issued or will be forthcoming. Based on $1,300 per each
federal and provincial refund, it can be estimated that Burlington residents have spent at
least $6.1M since 2007 to upgrade their homes to make them more energy efficient and
environmentally friendly.
What is Happening
Funding for the federal ecoEnergy rebate program was discontinued on March 31, 2010,
and the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program which also funds pre-retrofit audits and
retrofits ends on March 31, 2011. This program pays 50% of a home audit (up to $150)
and up to $5,000 in retrofit grants at the conclusion of a certified post-retrofit audit.
Two non-profit organizations in Burlington are facilitating installations of renewable
energy systems. HERE! Halton Enablers of Renewable Energy is working to liaise with
homeowners and promote renewable energy for private properties. Their focus is mainly
on residential photovoltaic, solar pool heating, solar hot water heating, and vertical loop
geothermal systems. BurlingtonGreen is organizing a Burlington Renewable Energy Cooperative Project that will allow shareholders to benefit from the microFit rebates (see
Chapter 6 – Energy).
Conclusion
The city has started several initiatives related to building green, starting with its own new
buildings, which target LEED Silver certification. The city needs to provide training to
ensure that city staff are familiar with LEED requirements for dealing with building
permits and planning applications.
Recommendations
1. That the city prepare a program to encourage a level of green standards in all
planning development applications, as well as provide incentives for those who are
willing to achieve higher standards than required.
2. That the city undertake a training program for city staff who deal with planning
applications and building permits to obtain LEED accreditation. This program could
also extend to educating the public on LEED.
127
Chapter 12: Sustainable Consumption in
Practice
Introduction
This new chapter in the State of the Environment report was added to show the steps
that the city and its residents are taking to make sustainable consumption part of their
lives.
Issue: Retailers Response to Sustainable Products and
Practices
Why it was Measured
Retailers are trying to draw in the environmentally conscious consumer by offering
recycling programs for CFLs, batteries, used paint and plastic bags. These customer
service recycling programs are supported by Halton Region’s Take It Back! Halton
campaign that was launched on October 31, 2007. It was originally developed in
partnership with the plastics industry to provide an option for Halton residents to recycle
plastic bags. The directory of retailer and product categories has expanded as retailer
"take-back" programs have grown. The Take It Back! Halton program is mentioned in
the Waste Management chapter.
What was Measured
Participating retailers and corporate partners in the Take It Back! Halton program in
Burlington were measured.
What was Found
The number of participants and the variety of products taken back has expanded
significantly since the program began in 2006 (see table below). The items taken back
now includes batteries, light bulbs, paint, cell phones, car parts, eye glasses, medication,
ink and toner, plant pots and electronics.
Table 12.1: Take It Back participation
2006
2010
Number of Items
1
20
Percentage
Increase
2000 %
Number of locations
20
47
135 %
Source: Take It Back Halton website
128
Issue: Eco-Certification Labels to Guide Consumers
Why it was Measured
Eco-certifications exist in Canada to assist consumers to make environmentally friendly
purchasing decisions. In general terms certifications set a standard of guidelines and
criteria against which a product has been assessed. A given certification states that the
product meets those criteria.
What was Measured
As consumers become more sensitive to ‘greenwashing’, proprietary industry-developed
standards and industry-certified labels are not enough. First party (the producer) product
declarations in marketing claims and product specifications are not independently tested
or verified. Second party certification usually involves a trade association or outside
consulting firm that has set a standard or verified a claim. However, second party
certification provides little assurance against conflict of interest. Third party certification
is an independent verifying organization. Consumers can be more confident in a
certification that comes from a third party organization that is strictly in the business of
certifying.
The number and type of third-party eco-certifications was measured.
What was Found
The following eight third-party eco-certifications were found. These certifications are
either provincial or national certifications with the exception of Fairtrade and the Forest
Stewardship Council, which are international certification programs.
®
ENERGY STAR : Covers over 50 different product types from home appliances,
heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, lighting, electronics and office
equipment. Introduced in 1992, ENERGY STAR is now widely adopted. Certification is
granted to the top 25% who meet the ENERGY STAR criteria for each line of products.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): An international non-profit launch in 1993 that
manages an international standard for well-managed forests.
Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Z809: Sustainable Forest Management
began in 1996. This certification demonstrates that forest products have originated from
a forest certified to CAN/CSA-Z809 SFM and have been verified to the CSA Chain-ofCustody requirements through an independent third party audit.
CRI Green Label and Green Label Plus: Since 1992 an indoor air quality certification
to control carpet production emissions and minimum levels of volatile organic chemicals
in the manufactured product.
Green Seal: Certifies a wide range of products from paints, to lamps, to windows. An
independent third party, it will consider the impact over the entire life cycle of a product
category; then set criteria for the top 20% considered having superior performance. It
updates product criteria every three years.
129
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV EcoLogo or Environmental Choice: A Canadian third party certification and labelling
program established in 1988. It covers over 250 product types, many that are building
related. Only the top 20% of existing products receive certification.
Canada Organic: Permitted for use only on those food products certified as meeting the
revised Canadian standard for organic production and that contain at least 95 percent
organic ingredients.
Fairtrade: International certification that enables the sustainable development and
empowerment of disadvantaged producers and workers in developing countries through
Fairtrade labeling. It has over 2,700 licensees - owners of brands that source from
Fairtrade producers and sell the final product with the Fairtrade Certification market.
Issue: Green Procurement Policies
Why it was Measured
A green procurement policy increases the development and awareness of
environmentally sound products and services. The City of Burlington recognizes that its
employees can make a difference in favour of environmental quality. In addition,
environmentally preferable products are often better quality and last longer; thereby
saving money over the long term. For the most part, once these products gain
widespread acceptance, they also become less expensive. The goal of the policy is to
get the entire organization focused on using products and services that are more
responsible to the environment.
Green procurement is consistent with the city’s goals and objectives to have a clean,
green environmentally healthy city. The city actively participates and encourages
environmentally responsible programs, policies and actions that work to improve and
restore our natural environment.
What was Measured
The green procurement undertaken by the City of Burlington was measured.
What was Found
In 2008 the city adopted a green fleet strategy that included a number of measures to
improve the city’s fleet and lessen its environmental impact.
Purchase of biodiesel
Biodiesel reduces the amount of pollutants contributing to smog, including particulate
matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons that are emitted from the tailpipe. It has
very limited sulphur content and has better lubrication qualities than standard diesel fuel,
which can increase horsepower and extend engine life. The production process to
develop biofuels also emits less greenhouse gases compared to the production of fossil
fuels. There are real benefits to using biodiesel, but it is not commonly available to
consumers yet and comes with a premium cost of approximately five to 15 cents per
litre.
130
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV The city has been using various concentrations of biodiesel fuel since 2003 in an effort
to reduce air pollutant emissions. Since 2003 a B20 mix (20% bio and 80% diesel) was
usually used for off-road vehicles during May, June and September and B50 (50% bio
and 50% diesel) was used for July and August. However in 2010, due to mechanical
problems associated with the B50 mix, the city switched back to using B20 during July
and August. In 2004, the city also began purchasing a B5 mixture for on-road diesel
vehicles during May to September, available to those diesel powered vehicles that fuel
up at the Roads and Parks Operations Centre. There are limited benefits to using B5 for
emission reductions and consideration should be given to eventually expanding the mix
to B20 (but taking into consideration manufacturer recommendations and warranty
issues).
Purchase of clean diesel fuel
Diesel engines manufactured for the 2007 model year and later utilize a type of
particulate filter and are designed to run solely on Ultra Low Sulfer Diesel (ULSD) fuel
(15 parts per million). The selection of light duty vehicles here is still limited but auto
makers have announced plans to start producing light-duty pickup trucks with diesel
engines starting in 2009. Staff will continue to monitor the opportunities to add clean
diesel light duty vehicles to the city fleet as part of the needs assessment process. The
city has already instituted the use of this fuel for its off-road equipment.
Vehicle maintenance
Vehicle maintenance is an important part of a green fleet strategy to ensure emissions
continue to be minimized and fuel efficiency is maximized. Waste reduction is also an
important aspect of vehicle maintenance. The Roads and Parks Maintenance (RPM)
and Transit Departments use recycled oil and bulk purchases to reduce packaging and
containers, such as aerosol cans. The city is accredited to complete heavy duty vehicle
drive-clean tests on its vehicles.
Purchase of hybrid vehicles
Hybrids are most efficient for high mileage applications with a high proportion of stop and
go city traffic. As of 2010, the city had 23 hybrid light duty vehicles in its fleet, including
the Toyota Prius, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Honda Civic and Ford Escape.
Right sizing the fleet
This refers to ensuring that the right size vehicle is assigned for a specific job function.
The fleet manager for the Roads and Parks Maintenance (RPM) Department continues
to work with departments to help identify right sized vehicles to meet their needs, while
taking into consideration fuel efficiency and emissions reductions using a cost benefit
analysis, focusing on capital cost, operating costs (fuel/maintenance) and emissions.
For example, an assessment of a full size pick-up may determine that a compact pick-up
or a car with a hatchback for storage may be sufficient. A ‘needs assessment’ form has
been developed to assist with this exercise to confirm the function and requirements of
the vehicle. Recent examples of corporate right sizing include the replacement of a cube
van with a Sprinter van, achieving an improvement in fuel efficiency by 40%. As well,
Engineering has replaced a compact pick-up truck with a compact car.
Other sustainable procurement measures that have been undertaken within city
operations include:
131
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV City digital copy centre purchasing
The digital copy centre has successfully removed all hazardous chemical solutions from
the printing process and mandated that high production print equipment suppliers to
have ENERGY STAR ratings. Lighting has been upgraded and is brighter but uses 50%
less energy. Toner supplied by external contractors used in the print process is now
recyclable.
Office printing
Staff are encouraged to print double sided – the Information Technology staff ensure
that printers are set on duplex as the default setting.
Use of recycled concrete and asphalt
The City of Burlington requires that contractors grind concrete and asphalt for reuse as
part of their work order.
What is Happening
Purchasing Services is currently working on a Green Procurement Policy and Guidelines
that is targeted to be completed in 2011.
Conclusion
The residents of Burlington and Burlington City Council are all making efforts to consume
sustainably.
Recommendation
That the city complete and implement the Green Procurement Policy.
132
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV APPENDIX A – SOER III Recommendations
1. That the city develop from the Natural Areas Inventory a natural heritage
framework, and work with landowners to preserve and protect the elements of
this framework, with particular regard for interior forests (Chapter 1).
The region has developed a natural heritage system within ROPA No. 38 which
requires provincial approval. Once approval is final, Burlington will need to bring its
OP into conformity with the region’s NHS policies.
2. That the city encourage and expand mixed-use development throughout
Burlington as one way of fostering sustainable development (Chapter 2).
The city incorporated mixed-use policies and regulations during its last review of the
Official Plan and Zoning By-law. The recent changes have achieved examples of
mixed-use developments throughout the city, including the downtown core. The
mixed use requirements are expected to help achieve the provincial intensification
targets for Burlington and sustainable development principles.
3. That the city encourage the Burlington Economic Development Office to work
with the agricultural community to review the need for programs and/or the
provision of a resource centre for farmers to access information/advisory
services for business planning and entrepreneurial support (Chapter 3).
Currently the rural agricultural business sector is not a direct focus of the Burlington
Economic Development Corporation. However, to help develop the local agricultural
industry and community, there is support provided to local agricultural organizations
through Halton Region’s Agricultural Community Development Fund. The Halton
Agricultural Advisory Committee also exists to advise and assist Halton Region in its
effort to develop and maintain a permanently secure, economically viable agricultural
industry as an important component of Halton’s economic base, and as a source of
employment for Halton’s rural community.
4. That the city review the agriculture policies of the official plan and, in
cooperation with members of the local agricultural community, specifically
look at:
a. Requiring and encouraging best management practices.
Best agricultural management practices are supported by the provincial ministry
of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs who have the expertise in this area.
b. Amending the policies to allow and encourage compatible secondary farm
uses and value-added 'agritainment' operations that are compatible with
surrounding agricultural uses.
Most of the Burlington rural area is covered by the Niagara Escarpment Plan,
which does not permit on-farm/non-farm businesses. Burlington supported
changes to the Regional Plan to allow on-farm/non-farm uses in the ‘protected
countryside’ portion of Burlington’s rural area, which is quite small.
133
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV c. Developing a vision for rural lands that includes a viable agricultural and
local food production component (Chapter 3).
The current Burlington and Regional Official Plan policies encourage agricultural
uses, which include food production. The challenge is that many of the new
agricultural operations do not involve traditional food production (eg. horse farms,
horticultural operations). To some extent, this is a result of economics with nonfood production uses yielding higher economic gains, especially on smaller
farms. There is also the corresponding challenge of a loss of agricultural support
services in Halton (eg. farm equipment supplies and services, and food
processing plants).
5. That the region implement the GreenCart Program region-wide in February of
2008 (Chapter 4).
In April 2008, Halton Region introduced the GreenCart program across the region,
helping to increase the waste diversion rate from 41.7% in 2007 to 57.4% in 2009.
6. That the city adopt LEED building principles regarding the re-use and
recycling of construction and demolition waste from city projects and
encourage the private sector to do the same (Chapter 4).
Points are achieved under the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design) for increasing levels of waste diversion of construction waste. The City has
completed two projects and has two more under way that are being built to target
either LEED silver or certified. As an example, 75% of the waste is being diverted
from the construction of the new Fire Station building.
As for the private sector, please see response to recommendation #11. Staff will be
reporting back on options to require or encourage the private sector to target LEED
certification for new buildings.
7. That the city and region work to raise awareness of the importance of reducing
the use of pesticides and/or adopt a by-law to restrict the use of pesticides
(Chapter 4).
In 2008, the provincial government adopted legislation restricting the cosmetic use of
pesticides on private property. Since 2000, city staff have worked closely with Halton
Region and our local municipal partners through Partners for Naturally Green to raise
public awareness of the importance of reducing the use of pesticides. Materials
continue to be provided to the public on how to use best cultural practices to
maintain lawns and gardens.
134
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV 8. That the city and region implement the actions recommended in the Halton
Transportation Master Plan to reduce the use of single occupant vehicles,
thereby reducing congestion and greenhouse gas emissions (Chapter 5).
The city has implemented a number of initiatives to support sustainable
transportation. Burlington is a ‘participant employer’ under the Halton Smart
Commute program to encourage its staff to choose sustainable transportation
options, such as carpooling, cycling and transit. In 2009, city council approved the
Cycling Master Plan. Off road bike trails have been paved (Centennial Bike path and
the Northern Hydro corridor) and bicycle priority streets have been implemented with
painted bike sharrows. New bike shelters have been installed at Tansley Woods and
Brant Hills Community Centres and bike racks have been installed in the downtown
parking garage facility. Recently, a green transportation map was produced and
distributed throughout the city showing trails and transit routes.
9. That the city take a local leadership role in encouraging the development of
‘green buildings’ by requiring LEED accreditation for all new municipal
buildings (Chapter 6).
In 2009, city council approved a sustainable building policy targeting LEED silver for
new city buildings and major retrofits greater than 500 square metres. Currently the
city has four projects being built or already completed under the LEED (Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design), including the Performing Arts Centre and
Appleby Ice Arena expansion (both LEED certified targeted), and the Transit
Operations Centre expansion and new Fire Station - #8 (both LEED silver targeted).
The Alton Secondary School, Library & Community Centre, a project led by the
Halton District School Board, is being built with green building measures, including
the installation of solar energy (PV) panels.
10. That the city investigate a district energy application for the downtown core
area for heating and cooling buildings to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy sources should include geothermal and solar. (Chapter 6).
This has not been undertaken. The focus of CSI energy staff has been on the
implementation of systems and site specific energy conservation and renewable
energy projects to improve the efficiency of city facilities. Staff will be investigating
the feasibility of additional solar installations on city facilities through the energy audit
process in 2011. See response to recommendation #12 for additional information.
11. That the city encourage LEED accreditation for private sector developments,
especially those for which zoning and/or official plan amendments are
requested (Chapter 6).
In 2010, planning staff reported to council with background information on municipal
green building programs and are expected to report back in 2011 on measures to
promote the provision of sustainable building measures in the private sector. The
city has accepted LEED certification as a community benefit under Section 37 of the
Planning Act, in exchange for additional height and density for some projects.
135
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV 12. That the city develop a comprehensive energy management plan that
incorporates the life cycle costs of capital projects (Chapter 6).
City staff plan to complete the corporate energy management plan in 2011 following
the completion of the building automation system, implementation of an energy
tracking system, and undertaking of facility energy audits. The information provided
by these systems and building audits will help contribute to the completion of a
comprehensive energy management plan.
13. That the city develop targets for energy consumption reductions, and fund
energy saving initiatives by considering both upfront capital and operating
costs (Chapter 6).
See response to #12. The corporate energy management plan will include targets.
14. That the city implement a policy to ensure that leased and purchased fleet
vehicles have the lowest level of emissions for the class of vehicle required
(Chapter 7).
In 2008, city council approved the Green Fleet Transition Strategy, with ten actions
to continue to green the city’s fleet, such as the use of hybrid vehicles, right sizing
and using cleaner burning fuels. As part of this strategy, staff are required to
complete a needs assessment when replacing or acquiring a new vehicle to
determine the right size of vehicle required for function as well as to complete a
review of vehicle options and emissions.
15. That the city undertake a program to label the creeks in the urban Burlington
watershed (Roseland, Tuck, Shoreacres, Appleby and Sheldon) at points
where they are crossed by major roads; and in conjunction with Conservation
Halton develop a long term plan to maximize the naturalization of these creeks
(Chapter 8).
The city was a partner in the installation of the original watershed signs created by
the Watershed Planning Network, a network of planners and environment staff
working within government and conservation agencies within the Hamilton Harbour
watershed. Funding for that initiative was provided by the TD Bank Friends of the
Environment program.
City staff agree that this is a good stewardship initiative to continue. Although a citywide project has not been undertaken, signage will be investigated as part of
ongoing creek restoration projects, such as current projects along Indian and
Sheldon Creeks within Burlington.
16. That the region form a task force from a wide range of stakeholder groups to
participate in a series of meetings to provide advice and guidance on the
development of a climate change action plan for the region and its four area
municipalities (Chapter 10).
The region did not form a task force on climate change, however, has created an
Inter-municipal Advisory Committee on Sustainability with staff, political and
136
- STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT IV community representation from the region and all four municipalities to help develop
sustainable best practices and a sustainability lens for decision-making.
17. That the city investigate the use of solar hot water systems for all city-owned
buildings in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (Chapter 10).
A solar thermal energy system was installed in 2010 at Tansley Woods Community
Centre pool, including 90 solar thermal panels, integrated with a heat recovery
system. It is expected that this system will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from
city operations by approximately 42 tonnes per year. Additional work will be
completed in 2011 to investigate the feasibility of installing additional solar thermal
systems at the remaining city pools through the completion of the energy audits.
137

Table of Contents - City of Burlington

Transcription

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