3 summer activities to be hazardous waste aware of this summer

Spending time outdoors or in the pool this summer? Whether we realize it or not, many of our summertime activities can contribute to pollution and landfill fires if we’re not careful. One of the easiest ways to prevent this is by becoming hazardous waste aware.

1. Camping/BBQing – Be sure to safely store your propane tanks and cylinders and properly dispose of them once you’re done. Learn more about where to take propane tanks and cylinders here.
2. E-biking – Regular maintenance is important for maintaining e-bikes and their batteries. It’s important that when e-bike batteries reach their end-of-life, they are recycled responsibly. Find a list of free drop-off locations here.
3. Relaxing in the pool or hot tub – Maintaining pools and hot tubs involves chemicals that are safe when used correctly, but can cause fires if disposed of in garbage or recycling bins. Unused or expired chemicals can be dropped off at Hartland Landfill for free. Find information on Hartland Depot hours and other accepted items here.

Community Events

August 19 - North Saanich Repair Cafe (Drop-in)

September 10 - Compost Education Centre - Composting Basics (Registration required)

September 16 - North Saanich Repair Cafe (Drop-in)

September 17 - Compost Education Centre - Worm Composting (Registration required)

October 15 - Compost Education Centre - Advanced Composting (Registration required)

Want to get the word out about an event related to waste reduction in the region? Email rethinkwaste@crd.bc.ca to get it added to the list.

Have an idea on how to reduce waste?

One of the key actions identified in the SWMP was to establish the Rethink Waste Community Grant. The grant provides funding for the development and implementation of community-based projects that align with the 5R pollution prevention hierarchy and move waste out of landfills to their highest or next best use.

• The grant funds community projects that divert waste from landfill and move materials up the hierarchy.
• Up to $3,000 per project is available. Projects are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Applicants can be individuals, community groups, non-profit organizations, K-12 schools, post-secondary clubs, parent councils.

Ask the CRD's Infoline

Q: Where can I recycle sod removed from my lawn to make room for larger gardens?

A: Sod would be accepted up at Hartland as yard and garden material though it must not have a lot of soil attached. If you do have a lot of soil, contact one of these companies for disposal options.

For Hartland’s hours, rates and list of items accepted in the public drop off area, click here. Please remember to cover/secure your load.

If you are curious about other recycling options for yard and garden material, please click here.

Have a question about waste and recycling? Email your questions to infoline@crd.bc.ca.

Policy, Planning and Staff Reports

A round-up of the latest solid waste policy and planning reports by staff to inform the CRD Board and Environmental Services Committee.

2021 Solid Waste Annual Report

The annual report provides a review of CRD solid waste management activities in 2021, including an update on the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) and identification of six short-term priority areas.

• Full Report

International Waste Disposal

The CRD Board approved an increase of tip fees for international high-risk waste, including cruise ship waste, to $500/tonne beginning January 1, 2024.

• Staff Report

• Meeting Minutes