No one knows the needs of a community better than those who live and work in it. At BFI Canada and IESI, our philosophy of local managerial empowerment allows our site managers to give back to their communities in ways that best meet the needs of their communities. This location-specific approach to good corporate citizenship results in a kaleidoscope of outreach programs, contributions and support that serve to benefit thousands of people across our service region.
Encouraging Economic Growth
Our waste management and recycling facilities encourage economic vitality and growth in their communities through more than contributions. Throughout the BFI Canada and IESI service region, our companies purchase goods and services locally, employ local people, and contribute to the local tax base. We also belong to our local chambers of commerce, and sponsor chamber events that promote the economy. Some of our facilities provide host community benefits packages for their municipalities, as well, that lower residential taxes and provide for municipal capital improvements.
At the Seneca Meadows Landfill, in Waterloo, New York, the company has taken its role as a supporter of the local economy to a new level with the establishment of a landfill gas driven industrial park, called, the Seneca Meadows Renewable Resource Park. The first tenant of this eco-industrial park is a hydroponics greenhouse company that is building a facility that will employ 150 people and produce vegetables throughout the year.
It is our belief that the greenhouse facility, as well as future tenants of the Renewable Resource Park, will bring continued revitalization and growth to the Waterloo community, and we hope to be an inspiration to other businesses in the area.
Giving Back
Giving back to our local communities is part of doing business for BFI Canada and IESI. One of the most vital groups served by our donations is our emergency service organizations. From southern Texas to Ontario, our facilities help provide equipment, gear, and vehicles for our local fire, police and sheriff’s departments. We also give to our ambulance services, Mercy Flight helicopter services and specialized emergency teams.
Another area of vital importance for our giving is the children of our communities. The companies of BFI Canada and IESI believe in our children, and we support them with scholarships, educational and sports programs, and school improvement projects.
Last, but certainly not least, in the area of giving are the thousands of local service and community organizations that benefit from our financial backing. We believe that investing in service organizations, such as the Kiwanis, Rotaries, and food pantries will bring great returns to our communities. We also believe that supporting the myriad of local community organizations that come to us for help will make our neighbourhoods better places in which to live and work.