The Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) has received approval of its new solid waste management plan by B.C.’s Minister of Environment.
All regional districts are required to prepare and submit a solid waste management plan to the ministry to ensure it meets provincial rules and expectations for waste management. The FVRD’s updated solid waste management plan will guide the efforts of the FVRD and its member municipalities, including Abbotsford, to reduce and manage the region’s garbage over the next 10 years.
The plan includes the establishment of a mixed waste materials recovery facility, also known as an MRF. MRFs use a combination of mechanical, optical, and manual sorting to remove leftover recyclable or compostable material from the waste stream. The facility aims to complement continued growth in the FVRD’s traditional recycling efforts.
The FVRD contrasted its plan to build an MRF with Metro Vancouver’s controversial proposal to burn its garbage, which it put on hold last week.
“Compared to garbage incineration, MRFs are more cost-effective and have no negative impact on air quality,” the FVRD said in a release. “Combined with job creation opportunities and higher waste diversion, an MRF will be a strategic part of the FVRD’s new approach to solid waste management.
“The FVRD is seeking partnerships with other regional districts and municipalities who also plan to maximize materials recovery from waste before disposal. By working together with the private sector, and taking advantage of economies of scale, the FVRD hopes to lead by example and implement a true Zero Waste management system in British Columbia.”
