Waste probably belongs in the bin, not in the great outdoors.
The Regional District of Nanaimo is launching a campaign to draw attention to the problem of illegal dumping.
The Your Waste Doesn’t Belong Here social media campaign is seeking to get across the cost of illegal dumping and advise residents about responsible waste management.
According to an RDN press release, the regional district spends approximately $30,000 each year dealing with illegal dumping; in 2016, 35 tonnes of garbage was recovered. The RDN notes that illegally dumped waste can have negative effects on the environment, including wildlife habitat, and also impacts others’ outdoor recreation pursuits.
“I think there are a number of reasons why people dump illegally including lack of awareness about how easy and inexpensive recycling is in our region,” said Bill Veenhof, RDN chairman, in the press release. “In many cases, the dumped items can be recycled free of charge or for a small fee at any number of recycling depots in our region.”
Those who witness someone illegally dumping are asked to call the provincial Report All Poachers and Polluters line at 1-877-952-7277 (or #7277 on cellphones).
For more information about the campaign and how to legally dispose of garbage and other unwanted material, please visit www.rdn.bc.ca/illegaldumping.