Victoria, BC– The Capital Regional District (CRD) is celebrating Earth Day with the launch of the brand new Rethink Waste Community Grant program.

“Earth Day is a time for people to take action on the environmental challenges facing our community and the Rethink Waste Community Grant gives them a chance to bring their ideas to life,” said CRD Environmental Services Committee Chair Barb Desjardins. “I’m excited to see what innovations residents and organizations in the capital region come up with to help reduce our collective waste and promote a circular economy in the community.”

One of the key actions identified in the region’s new solid waste management plan, the Rethink Waste Community Grant program will provide funding for the development and implementation of community-based projects that will reduce the amount of waste sent to Hartland Landfill each year. Examples of eligible projects include the creation of a pop-up free store, three stream waste removal at community events (compost, recycling and garbage), developing repair workshops or events.

“It will take the entire region working together to reduce the region’s overall waste generation from 390 kg/capita to 250 kg /capita,” said Chair Desjardins.

The Rethink Waste Community Grant was designed to be accessible to all residents in the capital region, including individuals, non-profit organizations, post-secondary clubs, K-12 schools and parent advisory councils. Funding of up to $3,000 per project is available now and applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

For details and how to apply, please visit www.crd.bc.ca/rethinkwaste.

Proud to be recognized as one of BC’s Top Employers and Canada’s Greenest Employers, the CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and all levels of government to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.bc.ca.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Kate Masters, Communications Liaison
CRD Environmental Resources Management
Tel: 250.360.3218
Cell: 250.507.8015