Humanity is facing multiple waste emergencies from many different industries. Even with current recycling programs, our trash problem is threatening the climate, wildlife habitats and critical natural resources like fresh water. Food waste alone is responsible for 50% of agriculture-related greenhouse gas emissions.

Ontario Genomics’ wasteCANcreate program is turning food waste into things like biodegradable plastic by bringing together University of Toronto, University of Waterloo and Carleton University researchers along with partners from the energy, agriculture & food, plastic films and performance textiles sectors in Burlington, Aylmer, Orillia, Vancouver and Regina to create real-world solutions. 

With vast natural resources and biomass, world-leading clean technology research and strong trade relations, Canada is fully capable of being a leader in the world’s circular economy. The wasteCANcreate program is investing in bio-based technologies that turn common waste products into high-value products like biodegradable plastics, upcycled textiles, and more. Not only does this reduce greenhouse gas emissions and our dependence on fossil fuels, but it’s also creating lasting economic opportunities for Canadian industry.