The National Packaging Protocol was the right thing to do, but it wasn't necessarily the easy thing to do. When groups as diverse as industry, government, consumer and environmental organizations come together to try to solve a mutual concern, each brings to the table their own agenda of needs and wants. This is natural as none of these entities have the same purpose in life, or in business. Yet despite these differences, through the Protocol, these diverse groups pulled together to meet the needs and wants of people in Canada. And it was accomplished voluntarily, which is perhaps the most significant thing of all.
In the last issue of Glass Works /Recy-Verre the mathematical argument for cooperation was provided, (See "Cooperation Adds Value", vol.8 no.3). Canadians have proven this is not just an empirical statement, it works and it works very well.
I think it is very important to compliment those Canadians whose cooperation added value, and set an example to those who fell a little short on their responsibility.
I think that Canadians need to do a very un-Canadian thing - I believe we should be quite vocal about this accomplishment. Why is that?
Historically, environmental problems were addressed by command and control regulations that were prescriptive and intrusive on businesses, and on consumers. Certainly improvements in environmental quality were achieved but not always in a cost effective manner. Many of the environmental challenges that remain (habitat destruction, biodiversity, climate change) are of a different nature. They are more complex and they require a shift in the behaviour of people, all people.
I am not suggesting we are pompous about our success. But I think it is very important to compliment those Canadians whose cooperation added value, and set an example to those who fell a little short on their responsibility. The message also needs to be heard around the globe as other countries need to know that it can be done.
Congratulations Canada!
Doug Symington is Director of Public Affairs for Consumers Glass.
He is available at 416-232-3214, by fax at 416-232-3274, or e-mail: dsymingt@consumersglass.com
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