Organic Food Waste Program Gets Closer Look

Mar 4, 2019 | 12:38 PM

Is the North Okanagan ready for a program to divert organic food waste into composting programs?

That’s what the Regional District of North Okanagan is looking to find out as it sends the idea to its member municipalities, electoral areas, and businesses for comment.

The direction was given by the RDNO Board of Directors at its committee of the whole meeting Feb. 27, and the motions will be before the regular board for final approval on March 6.

RDNO chair Kevin Acton says they currently have programs to process yard and garden waste, and now they want to find out if residents support expanding that to food waste.

“Diverting food waste from the garbage can be a big undertaking for residents, municipalities, and businesses, so we need to make sure the interest exists before implementing programs and regulations,” says Acton, who says about 35% of household waste is organic material that comes from yards or kitchens.

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He says if the response is positive, they could seek proposals from interested companies on running the program.

“After consulting with businesses, electoral areas and member municipalities, and if interest is shown, the RDNO will issue a Request for Proposal or Expression of Interest for the collection and processing of disposal of food waste organics,” says an RDNO release. “This approach allows contractors to offer their solution to the RDNO for consideration.”

RDNO will also talk with community gardens to determine the feasibility of adding community organics drop bins at the community gardens.

The regional district currently offers a $30 rebate for selected composters and vermicomposters purchased at participating retailers.

by Corey Fischer