The OWMA is the province’s largest, most effective environmental services association representing the waste management and recycling sector. Its membership includes more than 250 companies and organizations in the private and public sectors, which manage 85% of Ontario’s waste.  The association works with its members to develop detailed research and provide expert advice with the objective of increasing recycling, addressing climate change and fostering investment and innovation in the waste management sector. The OWMA also provides opportunities for members to network together while supporting their professional development and career growth with educational events and webinars.

The OWMA is the voice of the waste management sector. We monitor and assess regulatory and legal developments to develop detailed research and provide expert advice to the government focused on creating a cleaner environment and moving toward a more circular economy in Ontario.

The waste management sector contributes more than $3.5 billion to Ontario's economy and employs about 14,500 people, who have salaries typically 22% above the provincial average. Moving to a circular economy, in which more materials are recovered and recycled into new products, could support the creation of about 13,000 new jobs and provide a $1.5-billion boost to the province’s GDP.Our sector provides essential environmental services to Ontarians, including: waste and recyclables collection and transfer, organics processing and composting, resource recovery and material recycling, hazardous waste management and safe disposal.

The OWMA is at the forefront of addressing waste management issues and needs by providing cutting-edge research publications and advice that impact our sector. The OWMA keeps its members informed about the latest developments in the sector with timely communications, workshops and webinars.