I find myself disheartened, somewhat, by the recent news of what’s happening to our so-called recycled trash; shipped to other countries? Come on, give me a break.
I’m diligent and careful to recycle our weekly garbage and waste at home.
Further, I volunteer to pickup the trash along a three-kilometre stretch of 19A every four or five weeks that people continue to throw out of their vehicle windows. Yes, and I still refuse to pick up the cigarette butts that are being tossed at every significant light or sign along the way (wise up folks; the grass at the side of the road is combustible). I even take the time to separate and recycle what I get off the highway.
However, with the recent news of our recyclables being shipped abroad, I feel like saying “why bother?”
We can, and should do better.
Rather than snivel, rant and whine too long, what I really want to know is what actually happens to the recyclable materials, specifically here in the PQB area.
I take all that I can to the recycle depot; but where does the stuff go from there, or from the curb after our home pickup? Where is the composting done? Where do the hard and soft plastics go? The other recyclables, what about them?
I’d really like to know, step by step, the route it takes from my curb.
Local governing and civic authorities ask that we do our duty by recycling, and for the most part we do, but what happens after it leaves our doorstep? Don’t need the broad general answer, need the details please, from those who have the responsibility to deal with it.
David Webb
Qualicum Beach