New project fosters waste reduction at regional markets
By Contributor
The EarthMatters program is in action again this summer, giving educational workshops and information, and facilitating enhanced waste recovery at Farmer’s Markets throughout the region.
Whether it’s Worm, Bokashi, or just a regular old heap, composting will be a main focus of the Waste Reduction Resource and Education Project.
“Composting can reduce waste by 40% percent and provide outstanding fertilizer for your plants,” says program coordinator Bruce Edson “There are plenty of composting options to fit everyone’s lifestyle – it’s becoming easier and more accessible everyday.”
Taking a cue from successes at recent markets in the region, the program will also provide facilitated waste reduction, helping people separate recyclables, compost, and garbage at waste stations.
“By helping people separate waste, we ensure everything ends up where it should, which is not the case when, for example, recyclables are mixed with garbage or garbage with compost. “ says Edson “ Too often, the whole thing ends up in the landfill even though people’s hearts are in the right place.”
The program follows on the heels of last year’s “Zero Waste Market Challenge,” which offered incentives to Market vendors who committed to waste reduction.
EarthMatters moves over to EcoSociety
This year, EarthMatters moved from being a program of the Nelson CARES Society to being a program of the West Kootenay EcoSociety.
“It’s a natural fit. EarthMatter’s is a well respected program in the area and has a unique niche that has always complemented EcoSociety’s work.” Says David Reid, EcoSociety Executive Director “We want to move towards zero-waste at the Markets and promote zero- waste in the Kootenays. That’s a big part of what EarthMatters does.”
“The Markets are a great place for education – and action – because where there is food there is waste. The transient nature of the events and the broad mix of people make it perfect for something like this.”
The Waste Reduction Resource and Education Project is supported by the City of Nelson, Regional District of Central Kootenay, and Ellison’s Market, who are providing the working demonstration composters which will be on hand at the Markets.
Information about the program can be obtained by contacting West Kootenay EcoSociety at 250-354-1909, or www.ecosociety.ca.
