Sustainability

Sustainability is a supporting pillar of CCOC’s vision and mission. We believe in the importance of being green, both as an organization and in the day-to-day lives of tenants and staff.

Why is it important to live sustainably?

  • To conserve resources. There are finite resources (water, air, etc.) on the planet and we need to make sure they’re still around for future generations.
  • To improve your health. Avoiding dangerous chemicals and reducing pollution makes air easier to breathe.
  • To save money. Many environmental actions you take will lower your energy costs.
  • To fight climate change. Reducing the amount of greenhouse gasses in our atmosphere lessens harmful changes to our climate.

 

CCOC has designed a number of programs to help tenants get involved in living a greener life.

Green Commitment

All new tenants are asked to sign a green commitment pledge form when they move in to commit to different behaviours in their day-to-day lives. Each year, tenants receive a personalized report card letting them know about the positive impact their choices have had on the environment. Report cards are also issued to each building so tenants can keep track of the difference they are making together.

My Green Commitment Logo

Hazardous Waste Diversion Program

CCOC has launched a Hazardous Waste Diversion Program in our buildings. This program allows tenants to get rid of their household hazardous waste and e-waste safely, in a way that helps to protect both their health and the environment.

Household hazardous waste includes any items that are poisonous, flammable, or corrosive. Some examples are batteries, CFL lightbulbs, full/ partially full aerosol sprays, paint, and many kinds of cleaners.

E-waste is electronic waste, and includes items like televisions, computers, printers, and cameras.

Contact the Facilities Management Department by email or phone at 613-234-4065 ext. 0 to learn about how to safely dispose of hazardous waste at your building.

Garbage, Recycling, and Green Bins

CCOC has a long history of waste diversion. As far back as the 1980s, we collected newspapers from tenants to shred and repurpose as insulation in our heritage homes. In the 1990s, we were the first multi-residential landlord in Ottawa to offer recycling to our tenants. And in 2010, we participated in the City’s pilot program to bring green bins to multi-residential buildings. Today, our tenants help divert more than 255,000L of organic waste from the landfill each year!

If you have questions about garbage, recycling, or green bins, please contact CCOC’s Facilities Management Department by email or phone at 613-234-4065.