In our last blog we shared with you some eye-opening stats on the amount of organic waste produced every day. As well some solutions on how to responsibly dispose of this type of waste. To continue the conversation we present Part 2 of the Organic Waste Reduction blog. Here we will educate you on the process that your organic waste goes through when processed.
The majority of the organic waste in Metro Vancouver is sent to Fraser Richmond Soil and Fibre, the top organic processing facility in British Columbia. Municipalities they service include the North Shore (North Shore Recycling Program), Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey and Burnaby.
Once at the processing facility, the organic materials are mixed together in large piles with other already composted material. These piles are then covered with carbon activated ash which helps reduce odors. After 7-9 weeks, the pile is sorted to separate the finer material, which is marketable, from the larger pieces which still need to break down.
The finished compost is then either sold as pure compost or is used to make garden and turf soils. In total, the entire composting process takes between 10 and 12 weeks. Click here for a quick video that illustrates the process.
Digging into one compost cell. Photo source: Fraser Richmond
Compost product getting loaded. Photo source: Fraser Richmond
Feedstock in loader. Photo source: Fraser Richmond
An energy garden is also currently under construction at Fraser Richmond Soil and Fiber which will allow the addition of another composting process (High Solid Anaerobic Digester). It will be up and running by July 2012.
Rendering of energy garden. Photo source: Fraser Richmond
Fraser Richmond Soil and Fibre is a proud supporter as is GCR of Metro Vancouver’s Zero Waste Challenge. The work they do has long-lasting sustainable effects on the environment. To reach the goals of the Zero Waste Challenge it starts with each person and household. Make sorting your waste a priority. Organic waste can have a powerful second life providing renewable fuel, power and heat source.
More information on Fraser Richmond Soil and Fibre can be found on their website: www.fraserrichmond.ca. Or chat with the Green Coast Rubbish team on Twitter or Facebook.
