Food waste collection considered for greater Kelowna area

Food waste collection may be on its way to the Central Okanagan.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan will survey area residents to see where they stand on curbside food waste collection programs. Depending on the feedback received in this phase, the regional district will then plot out next steps.

“Over 40 per cent of waste going into residential curbside garbage is compostable and most of that is food waste,” Travis Kendel, RDCO acting director of engineering services, said. “This initial survey aims to gain a wide range of perspectives from people of all ages and interests on food waste collection.”

Residents who receive a survey in the mail are encouraged to complete it in full and return it via postage-paid envelope, or complete the survey via a QR code online, no later than Nov. 13. This survey will provide a comprehensive understanding of residents’ opinions and preferences regarding food waste collection. The results of the survey will be compiled by an independent firm and presented to the regional district this winter.

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“A curbside food waste collection program can reduce 40,000 tons of CO2 equivalent emissions over 25 years, helping reduce the impacts of climate change,”  Kendel said. “By considering a curbside food waste collection program, we aim to expand upon our already existing organics (yard waste) collection program, providing an additional choice for residents to manage their food waste beyond backyard composting.”

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The RDCO is also launching a dedicated webpage for the food waste collection project.

By visiting the site, residents can stay informed and up to date on the results of the survey, project updates and continuing opportunities for involvement.

While the Central Okanagan has yet to get a food waste removal program, it’s well underway in the North Okanagan.

North Okanagan communities have already started with food waste recycling. In May of 2022, Vernon‘s organics program started. Once the organic materials are collected they are taken to a compost facility to be made into chemical-free fertilizer by Spa Hills Farm, a locally operated company.

For more information on the food waste collection project, visit the project’s webpage or contact the Waste Reduction Office at recycle@rdco.com or 250-469-6250.