The Nelson Leafs Recycling Centre collected an award-winning amount of hazardous waste in 2023, winning the facility one of 30 top collector awards in the province.
Each year, Interchange Recycling recognizes 30 of the province’s Return Collection Facilities (RCF) for exemplary performance and commitment to collecting used oil and antifreeze materials.
The Nelson Leafs Recycling Centre is one of the smallest centres on the list of winners for 2023. It collected 22,800 litres of oil and 2,700 litres of antifreeze.
In 2019, the facility was contracted by the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) for oil and hazardous waste collection.
Corrine St. George, manager of the Nelson Leafs Recycling Centre, credits the RDCK contract for an increase in oil and hazardous waste dropped off at the facility.
Prior to 2019, residents were forced to hold on to hazardous materials until the RDCK did its annual hazardous waste round-up.
St. George said winning a top collector recognition signifies the community’s dedication to sustainability.
“It’s kind of like a nice pat on the back for us to know that we’re doing well and that the community is responding well to the program. It shows dedication from all of us to do better for the environment.”
A full list of the 2023 winners can be found here.
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