Proposed regulatory changes…

Proposed regulatory changes that would allow farmers to expand the emerging renewable natural gas (RNG) market in Ontario can potentially make the province a North American leader in the biogas sector. Clear guidance is required on the size of on-farm operations which will be allowed. The potential economic risks must be understood, and protective measures put into place to allow this new infrastructure to operate both economically and in compliance with relevant environmental regulations. This includes proper guidance on siting to mitigate nuisance issues related to neighbouring farms and rural homeowners.

OMAFRA should coordinate policies with the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Parks and Conservation's Food and Organic Waste Diversion Framework. Tracking and reporting of off-farm material supplies should be required in a manner similar to rules established for waste service providers. Additional policy recommendations from the Ontario Waste Management Association are included in the attached supporting document letter.