At the Circular Innovation Hub, we lead forward-thinking projects that address the growing challenges of waste management and circular economy development. Our diverse research initiatives includes efforts to improve transparency and accountability in waste practices, such as the development of a Federal Open Data Standard for Plastics, which aims to standardize data collection across industries and enhance the tracking of waste materials. We also focus on empowering stakeholders through education, such as our Language of Sustainability Learning Series, which equips individuals and organizations with effective communication tools for promoting sustainability to diverse audiences.
In addition to these initiatives, our projects explore a range of topics, from enhancing household organic waste management systems to creating circular solutions for textiles and packaging. By collaborating with key industry, government, and community partners, we aim to develop practical, scalable solutions that have real-world impacts. Explore our current research projects to see how we are shaping a more sustainable and circular future through innovative strategies and meaningful collaboration.
Federal Open Data Standard for Plastics
Partnering with Environment and Climate Change Canada, we are developing an open standard for data collection related to consumer-based packaging, waste electronics, automobiles and other durable goods promoting transparency and consistency.
Funded by: Environment and Climate Change Canada
Ontario Deposit Return Program for Non Alcoholic Beverage Containers
Working with the Retail Council of Canada, we are exploring the viability of a deposit return system for non-alcoholic beverage containers in the province of Ontario.
Funded by: Retail Council of Canada
Language of Sustainability Learning Series
- Develop learning modules for stakeholders related to various aspects of sustainable communication
- Produce a best practice guideline for stakeholders in developing effective communicating strategies for minority and marginalized audiences.
Funded by: In-Kind
Consumer Attitudes on Packaging and Waste Management
In partnership with the University of Florida and AMERIPEN, we explore consumer attitudes towards packaging and packaging waste, aiming to drive more sustainable practices in the packaging industry.
Funded by: AMERIPEN and Consortium for Waste to Circularity
In-Home Modular Composters for Organic Waste
Collaborating with Food Cycler Science, we investigate the role of in-home modular composters in improving household access to organic waste management services.
Funded by: Food Cycler Sciences, Canadian Food Innovation Network
Defining Plastic Recycling and Waste Flow Tracking
We are working with the Canadian Standards Association to establish a formal definition for plastic recycling and develop standards for waste flow tracking.
Funded by: In-Kind
Diversion with a Purpose
In collaboration with Furniture Bank, one of Canada's leading charities, we quantify the environmental, economic, and social impacts of furniture and household wares donations.
Funded by: In-Kind
Training for Diversion in the IC&I Sector
As a resource partner to the Toronto Region Conservation Authority and Partners in Project Green, we help develop training modules focused on waste diversion in the industrial, commercial, and institutional (IC&I) sector.
Funded by: In-Kind
Waste Management Needs Assessment for York University
We conduct comprehensive assessments at York University, including recycling rates, diversion rates, and the total carbon footprint of the university's waste management services.
Funded by: In-Kind
Textile Circularity Action Plan
In partnership with Fashion Takes Action and Diabetes Canada, we are creating a nationwide action plan to promote textile circularity and reduce waste in the fashion industry.
Funded by: Diabetes Canada
Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging Waste
Working with domestic and international stakeholders, we help jurisdictions navigate the challenges of producer responsibility policies, advocating for flexible, non-prescriptive packaging legislation.
Funded by: AMERIPEN
Promoting Sustainable Waste Management Solutions
Our "Reduce, Reuse, Rethink" initiative educates stakeholders on the principles of the waste management hierarchy, encouraging sustainable solutions that go beyond recycling, in collaboration with Waste Free Ottawa.
Funded by: In-Kind
Reframing the Role of Single-Use Plastics
This project challenges misconceptions about single-use plastics, highlighting their role in a sustainable economy and addressing the potential negative impacts of blanket bans.
Funded by: In-Kind
Life Cycle Analysis for Product Packaging
We are developing an expanded life cycle analysis framework to better evaluate the environmental, social, and economic merits of various types of product packaging.
Funded by: Club Coffee, Polytainers, OFI International