Survey results shows significant interest in reuse, recycling and waste management
In the spring of 2021, the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine (RDKS) released a survey asking for feedback on waste management in the region.
An impressive 1,215 residents completed the survey with several themes emerging. For example, citizens want:
- Curbside collection of more types of materials;
- Clarity around what can and can’t be recycled and where to recycle items;
- A better understanding of how recyclables are managed (Fear not! Recyclables are not being landfilled; most recyclables are processed here in BC);
- More opportunities to reuse items like construction waste and furniture;
- Ways to keep reusable items out of the landfill;
- Transfer station/landfill hours that are more convenient and align better with recycling depot hours;
- Strategies to prevent illegal dumping, including improved public access to transfer stations/landfills, public education, and increased enforcement and fines.
“The survey highlighted what’s important to residents when it comes to reducing, reusing, recycling and disposing of waste in our region,” said RDKS Environmental Coordinator Nicki Veikle. “The excellent response rate also shows that people really care and want to have a say in how waste is managed in our region.”
The survey results will inform the RDKS Solid Waste Management Plan, which will be finalized this fall. The Plan will outline how waste will be managed in the region for the next decade.
“We weren’t surprised by the responses or questions we received,” said Veikle. “If anything, the results show that the RDKS is on the right track and has the same concerns and goals for waste management as our citizens.”
The draft Solid Waste Management Plan, along with a summary of the survey results, and “What We Heard from You: RDKS Response to the 2021 Solid Waste Survey” are available at: www.rdks.bc.ca/solidwasteplan.
Download the media release here.
Media Contacts
Michael Baker, Director of Works and Services
[email protected] | 250.615.61