During Ontario winters, we are using much more salt than we need to keep our roads, sidewalks and parking lots safe. Road salt contains chloride, and its excessive use can have devastating effects on freshwater species. In fact, when at peak levels such as the winter, some waterways are just as salty as the ocean! Freshwater fish can’t survive in water that’s too salty, and too much chloride in the water kills eggs and larvae of wildlife such as mussels.

When your organization purchases a product or service, it usually considers things like cost, quality, and technical capabilities. Buying responsibly adds another important layer of considerations to the table: considerations for the well-being of people and the planet. You might be surprised by the ways you can influence your organization’s buying habits. Sometimes, all it takes is asking the right questions to the right people. You can be the one to start that conversation.