October 19-25 is Waste Reduction Week!
When it comes to managing the region’s waste we all have an important part to play. With over 400,000 residents living in the capital region and a garbage disposal rate of 380kg per person per year, it is estimated that Hartland Landfill – our region’s only landfill – will be full in about 25 years. The Capital Regional District (CRD) is working to extend the life of Hartland Landfill and we need your help. The simplest way to extend the life of the landfill is by reducing the amount of garbage that each of us throws away.
Whether it’s at home, school, work or on the go, we all make choices that contribute to the amount of waste we create. Pausing to consider where our waste comes from can allow us to make choices that create less waste.
Here are our top five waste reduction tips:
Think before you buy. The top tip for reducing waste is to reduce the amount of stuff we buy in the first place. Before making a purchase, ask yourself: “Do I need it?”, “Can I buy it used?”, “Is it built to last?” and “Could this item be rented or borrowed from a friend?”
Steer clear of single-use items. Carry a reusable mug and water bottle, bring reusable bags for grocery shopping, pack a lunch in reusable containers, etc.
Reduce food waste. Make a meal plan and buy only what you know you will use. The average Canadian household wastes 140kg of food per year, that adds up to roughly $1,100 per year!
Feed the land, not the landfill. When you do have food waste, make sure you’re putting it in the right place. Despite being banned from the landfill, organic waste makes up the largest portion of what ends up in the landfill. By composting, or participating in green bin programs, you reduce the amount waste going to the landfill and help create a valuable resource.
Reduce, reuse, and then recycle. Have an item that you no longer want? See if you can donate it. If it’s broken, see if it can be repaired by attending a local Repair Café. If it cannot be donated or repaired, find out if it can be recycled. From textiles to electronics there are many recycling options available in our region. Visit www.myrecyclopedia.ca to find out more.
Join the conversation. Follow us on Facebook @CapitalRegionalDistrict for more waste reduction tips and the chance to win a prize during Waste Reduction Week - October 19-25.
For more waste reduction tips visit: www.crd.bc.ca/reduce