Cleanfarms’ Stewardship Program Plan (SPP) for designated ag plastics (grain bags and twine) was approved in 2021. Similar to all government-approved SPPs, it was approved for a five-year timeframe and then undergoes a standard review. Following the review, Cleanfarms will submit a new SPP to Manitoba Environment and Climate Change for approval for another five years.
Throughout 2025, Cleanfarms will review its existing SPP (which expires March 31, 2026) and consult with stakeholders and obligated parties on potential changes to the way designated ag plastics are managed in Manitoba.
A formal public consultation will take place in fall 2025.
Review process
The review process includes the following activities:
- Establishment of the Manitoba Advisory Committee (MAC) – A multi-stakeholder advisory committee was established in Fall 2024 and is a structured way for grower groups and associations to provide input into Cleanfarms’ work. MAC will likely meet two times throughout 2025 to review recommendations from Cleanfarms and provide input.
- Grower survey – An online survey will be fielded in early 2025 to allow growers to provide confidential and anonymous input into existing programs and potential changes.
- Program review – Cleanfarms regularly reviews its programs and reports annually to Manitoba Environment and Climate Change through a written report. A more extensive review will be undertaken and will feed into a new SPP.
- SPP drafting and development – An SPP will be written and made available for comment. The SPP includes important information like:
- on-the ground operations, transportation, logistics
- potential end markets
- governance
- financial management
- proposed promotions & education
- how a program operates, meets the requirements of the Packaging and Printed Paper Stewardship Regulation
- stakeholder input
- Public consultation – Fall 2025 – In addition to seeking feedback via the Manitoba Advisory Committee, stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide written feedback to Cleanfarms.