Why stop the application of Biosolids on Victoria's Hartland landfill or anywhere else in our community?

Biosolids are known to contain thousands of chemicals and pathogens; biosolids are not solely human/household waste, they also include pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, forever chemicals and industrial waste.

The list of pathogens and chemicals found to be present in biosolids include, and are not limited to: Bacteria (E.Coli), Viruses (herpes, papillomavirus), Heavy Metals, PBDEs (Flame retardant), pharmaceutical drugs (hormones, anti-depressants, steroids).Emerging Pathogens include: Prions (TSE, BSE “Mad Cow”), Microsporidia.(Source: Ryerson University – Risks associated with Application of Municipal Biosolids to Agricultural Lands in a Canadian Context).

Risk assessment is very complex due to the thousands of toxins, chemicals, pathogens, and heavy metals that can be present in biosolids (in addition to the unpredictable chemical interactions amongst any and all chemicals present).

Many environmental groups such as The Suzuki Foundation and The Sierra Club oppose the land application of biosolids because current policies do not protect human health, agricultural productivity, or the environment.

Why sign the petition?

The Mount Work Park is a neighbour to the Hartland landfill and families rely on the pristine air and clean water in Durance Lake when recreating. The Mount Work area is an ecological asset for the entire South Island region and should be protected from CRD’s plans to turn it into an industrial corridor.

There are too many unanswered questions surrounding the risks associated with biosolid application. We understand risk assessment is complex as there are many toxins, chemicals, and pathogens to consider; due to the complexity and numerous unknown variables, we believe it is extremely negligent to continue exposing the public, wildlife, and environment to Biosolids.

CRD's plans for spreading biosolids near the Mount Work Park threaten the health and safety of all neighbouring residents as well as the flora, fauna and marine life in the surrounding forests and ocean. This will seriously impair the natural ecosystem including the last remaining enclave of Douglas Fir in the area.

Please add your voice to oppose the CRD's risky decision to spread Biosolids in our Community.