News Release - February 16, 2018
RDN Confirms Support for NRE in SWMP
The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) Board of Directors has decided to support the NRE through the draft Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP), which is currently undergoing public consultation. Once approved, the SWMP will include the RDN funding of the Nanaimo Recycling Exchange to act as a research and recycling hub for recycling items currently not commercially marketable, in the amount of $300,000 per year for 5 years. The RDN will be soliciting public feedback on this funding, and all other aspects of the draft Solid Waste Management Plan over the coming months. Following public consultation, the final SWMP will be submitted to the Province in May 2018 for their approval.The RDN Board of Directors has declined a request from the Nanaimo Recycling Exchange (NRE) for the RDN to purchase land and construct a purpose built recycling facility designed, to be operated by the NRE. Before making their decision the RDN spent a great deal of effort and resources over the last few months considering the NRE's request.
"It is important to recognize, and state the RDN's appreciation of, the efforts of NRE, its staff, volunteers and supporters who help our region work towards our zero waste goal" said RDN Chair Bill Veenhof. "The RDN does and will continue to work towards zero waste in the region. The Board's direction to include financial support for the NRE in the draft Solid Waste Management Plan, in the amount of $300,000 annually for 5 years, is a very significant financial commitment in support of the NRE and our zero waste goal."
The Solid Waste Management Plan review began in 2013, and has followed a three stage process as follows:
- Stage 1: Review of the Current System
- Stage 2: Consideration and Selection of the Preferred Future Options
- Stage 3: Adoption of the Preferred Options and Development of the Implementation Schedule