Get the Top, Local stories delivered to your inbox! Click here to join the daily Vernon Matters newsletter.
RDNO looks into organics ban

RDNO looks into organics ban

May 22, 2019 | 7:26 AM

The Regional District of North Okanagan is taking a closer look at banning organic waste from industry, commercial and institutional (ICI) sources.

The board has directed staff to research the feasibility of such a ban.

Board chair Kevin Acton says those sectors account for 60% of the organic waste that goes into the landfill.

“We are serious about reducing the amount of waste that enters the landfill through sustainable solutions,” says Acton, who is also Lumby’s mayor. “No action is required of any businesses right now since we are just exploring our many options, but we are proud to be taking steps forward and putting thought and research into what the best choice is before making changes.”

A report will be brought forward to the board for consideration with options for an ICI organics ban in the coming months.

RDNO is also funding the installation of composting containers at interested community gardens, and providing grants to organics diversion programs at Vernon Secondary School and the Interior Provincial Exhibition.

“The focus of residential organics diversion will remain with education, support for backyard composting, and the promotion of the Love Food Hate Waste campaign. The RDNO offers a $30 rebate for any type of backyard composting system bought in the North Okanagan,” says an RDNO news release.