Waste disposal is decreasing and recycling is increasing according to 2010 statistics compiled by the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.
Since 2008, waste disposal at the TNRD’s transfer stations have decreased from 2,549 roll-off bins (each 50-yard bin averages 4.5 tonnes of waste) to 1,239 in 2010, a decrease of approximately 50 per cent. Household recycling increased 22 per cent in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District in 2010. Last year approximately 2,000 tonnes were recycled, including 590 tonnes of source separated corrugated cardboard, 1,370 tonnes of co-mingled Blue Bag recycling, and 40 tonnes of container glass.
“The increase in recycling could be attributed to a number of factors,” said Jamie Vieira, TNRD Environmental Services technologist. “One factor is the Village of Chase, Blue River Improvement District and Savona and Cherry Creek curbside recycling services started up last year.”
Also last year the TNRD partnered with product steward Encorp Pacific to host three electronic waste drop-off events – in Cache Creek, Clearwater and Chase. The high level of participation from TNRD area residents contributed to the opening of a year-round electronic waste drop-off location in Merritt.
The TNRD also sold 119 backyard composters, and donated backyard composters to organizations such as the Breast Cancer Society of Canada, Master Gardeners of Kamloops and the Interior Indian Friendships. Another 40 worm composters and accompanying workshops were extended to schools around the regional district.
The TNRD has an ongoing commitment to increasing environmental sustainability in the area.
