Create a Favourable Political Majority

July 22, 2013

With a political champion on-side, creating a favorable political majority is possible by highlighting the technological, political and financial benefits of the project that best align with legislative and regulatory objectives.  

In the case of EFW, this might explain how a new plant satisfies international, federal, provincial/state goals related to renewable energy, sustainable environmental practices, technological innovation and economic renewal.  

For the local audience, the alignment may come in the form of value-added job creation, increased property tax assessment, and alternative revenue sources.

Nurture a Political Champion

July 10, 2013

Establishing a supportive relationship with a respected, independent politician is an essential early step. This “star” candidate will have to speak positively about the project and the vendors, understand the political (electoral) opportunities and risks of the project, and be willing to stand up to an impetuous council, strident opponents and a sensationalizing media.  

The industry doesn’t have to enter into a formal alliance or declaration, though it must be prepared to match the political investment in the promotion of the project, engage appropriately in the debate with collaborative communications, ease the political burden by educating the public and media with fact-based evidence, and otherwise work in manner that respects local political protocols.

Establish Industry Consensus

July 10, 2013

The first most important step for the EFW industry in Canada may have been the establishment of the Canadian Energy-From-Waste Coalition (CEFWC).  This organization is dedicated to promoting the benefits of EFW in the context of an integrated waste management hierarchy.  

It presents the science behind the solution, avoiding any commercial messages.  And, because it is both vendor and technology neutral, it has served as an objective, trusted resource for policy makers, regulators and municipal officials.

The work of the CEFWC has been particularly effective as a means of communicating strong, focused messages to the public and media in the face of lobbying bans and other political idiosyncrasies imposed by local councils.