The following is being released on behalf of the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board:
As a provincial partner of Waste Reduction Week in Canada and to highlight environmental efforts and achievements supported through the Solid Waste Management Innovation Fund (SWMIF), the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB) today recognized the Avalon Mall and the launch of its new in-vessel Organics Recycling Program.
Through its funding programs, the MMSB invested $15,000 to help finance the purchase of an in-vessel composting unit to manage organic waste generated and collected at the Food Court of the Avalon Mall shopping center. Continuing to support innovation and waste reduction research helps advance the implementation of the Provincial Solid Waste Management Strategy and the provincial goal of 50 per cent waste diversion.
With the potential to divert 1,000 kg of food and fibre waste from landfill, this organics recycling program is the first in-vessel system to be launched at a shopping center in the province. The Brome industrial composter will reduce the volume of food going in the waste stream considerably through a thermophilic (heat) process, creating a composted product that will be used by local farms.
With organic waste comprising more than 30 per cent of the daily waste we generate, exploring viable options for managing organics is imperative to achieving sustainable waste management in Newfoundland and Labrador. This comprehensive program will lead the way for other large retail operations in the province.
Quotes
“Today’s launch demonstrates our government’s commitment to support businesses, non-profit groups and communities in identifying progressive waste management solutions. An organics recycling program at this level provides all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with inspiring examples of meaningful solutions that not only divert waste from our landfills, but also have the potential to drive new business and economic opportunities in the province.”
Honourable Derrick Bragg
Minister Responsible for the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board
“Avalon Mall, owned and managed by Crombie REIT, is committed to being an environmentally responsible centre, and is constantly looking for ways to reduce our environmental impact. The redevelopment of The Intermission provided the perfect opportunity to significantly improve waste diversion through the new Tray Valet stations. The staffed sorting stations ensure all customer waste is being properly divided into appropriate streams. With the introduction of the industrial composter, it is estimated that one tonne of organic waste will be kept from the landfill each day. Avalon Mall, our staff and retailers are all committed to enhancing our environmental initiatives as opportunities arise.”
Jamie Stroh
Retail Manager, Avalon Mall
Learn more
Rethink Waste NL
Waste Reduction Week resources
Multi-Materials Stewardship Board Funding Programs
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Media contacts
Lynn Robinson
Municipal Affairs and Environment
709-729-5449, 691-9466
Multi-Materials Stewardship Board
709-757-3695
inquiries@mmsb.nl.ca
Donna Vincent
Avalon Mall
709-724-1655
donna.vincent@crombie.ca