Input sought to guide district’s food waste collection

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is seeking public feedback as it moves into Phase Two of its food waste collection project.

The RDCO opened an online survey that asks their opinion about food waste collection. It also allows people to ask questions or leave comments for RDCO waste reduction experts.

The survey will be available from June 3 to July 2.

Feedback provided through the survey will help the RDCO move forward with the program and determine what the food waste collection could look like.

“We heard loud and clear in Phase One that residents are interested in a food waste collection program for the Central Okanagan,” Cynthia Coates, RDCO Supervisor of Solid Waste, stated.

“Now, we’re looking for residents’ help to create the criteria for what the program could look like moving forward. Understanding residents preferred options in receiving this service will help staff design a program that suits the needs of as many residents as possible when it comes to food waste collection in the Central Okanagan.”

Results from a survey in 2023 conducted as part of Phase One showed that 73 per cent of respondents were “enthusiastic about a curbside food waste program,” and 83 per cent of people said they would participate in the program it implemented.

Concerns were raised through that process, including costs associated with the program, frequency of collection, and wildlife issues, and the RDCO said those and other topics would be explored as part of Phase 2.

People who fill in the Phase Two survey will be entered into a draw for one of five $50 grocery store gift cards.

Physical copies of the survey can also be picked up at municipal halls across the region and at the Glenmore Landfill administration office. Paper surveys can be returned to each municipality or to the RDCO office.

The RDCO added waste reduction experts would set up booths throughout the region in June to speak with residents and answer any questions about food waste collection. The schedule of these pop-ups can be found at the RDCO’s website.