Last year, Surfrider SVI identified PVC pollution near Victoria beaches and storm drains caused by the outdoor dry cutting of PVC pipes during construction. PVC is one of the most toxic forms of plastics, comprising up to 60% known carcinogens and endocrine disruptors. Despite its impact in public and environmental health, PVC is used for water service lines. Find more information on our blog post here.
Surfrider SVI proceeded to raise the alarm and brought this issue to the City of Victoria through public hearings and proposed updates to the Works and Services Bylaw.
The City of Victoria has now strengthened its construction standards, requiring proper containment and disposal of debris to prevent PVC dust and shavings from reaching streets, storm drains, and local waterways.
By embedding pollution prevention into permitting and inspections, this marks a major step toward stopping plastic pollution at the source. May this victory inspire other municipalities across Canada to follow suit.