A new pilot drop-off program makes it easier for Victoria residents to recycle items such as flexible plastic, foam packaging and small electronics.
A weekend recycling hub at 1234 Yates St. runs Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., now through December. Residents can also drop off materials at collection tents at the Moss Street, James Bay and Oaklands Sunset markets. Popup events are also expected.
“Many residents in our community want to recycle these common materials but face barriers getting to existing facilities,” said Melanie Tromp Hoover, lead for the city’s Solid Waste Reduction. “Beyond the Curb creates more options, closer to home.”
The not-for-profit Recycle BC supports the project as part of its ongoing research into the feasibility of various collection options for flexible plastic and foam packaging materials.
Drop-off is free, and staff at each location will guide residents on how to participate. Accepted materials include flexible plastics such as chip bags, cereal bags, produce netting, zipper lock bags and wrappers; foam packaging and small electronics, such as laptops, phones, keyboards, remote controls or anything with a cord that can be carried under one arm.
The pilot program responds to feedback from residents – with 64 per cent reporting challenges recycling these hard-to-collect materials. It supports Zero Waste Victoria’s goal of cutting landfill waste by 50 per cent by 2040. and aligns with the Capital Regional District Solid Waste Management Plan.
Get a full rundown the accepted items online at victoria.ca/BeyondTheCurb.
