This Market Research and Engagement Study is the first of its kind for the Environmental Resource Management (ERM) division and will be conducted once every three years. The intention is to allow for comparison between years to determine if the CRD's waste reduction programs are effective, and to identify and address any challenges, limitations, or gaps within each program area. The findings from this study will help the CRD to better understand the public's attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors in relation to the CRD's waste reduction programming and behavior change initiatives within the capital region. R.A. Malatest & Associates Ltd. has been hired to administer these surveys and analyze the data on behalf of the CRD.

The overall purpose of this study is to gather baseline data and to determine the effectiveness of waste reduction programming by monitoring how attitudes, knowledge and behaviours evolve over time. This study will provide a basis for evaluating and/or re-defining new approaches and strategies outlined in the Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP). Specifically, this study aims to:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of current CRD waste reduction programming and behaviour change initiatives
• To develop baseline information related to residents' waste management behaviours and opinions
• To understand the knowledge of residential and industrial, commercial and institutional community in relation to the SWMP, the general waste system and available services
• To inform existing programs and/to guide the development of future programming