Manitoba has earmarked $10 million for recycling and waste diversion efforts during COVID-19.

$7 million will go towards blue box recycling programs through rebates to various municipalities and northern communities.

“Manitobans are spending more time at home, and in some cases that means an increase in waste or recyclables,” Conservation and Climate Minister Sarah Guillemard said. “We want to be sure that in these difficult times we don’t lose focus on our responsibility to reduce our waste and continue to divert items from our landfills as much as possible.”

$620,000 will go into Manitoba Composts Support Payments that are available to private and public compost facilities. These facilities divert organic waste extending the life of landfills, reduces greenhouse-gas emissions from the waste sector and produces compost, a valuable soil additive that supports plant growth. 

Mother Earth Recycling will be given $50,000 to launch a pilot project to recycle child seats and furniture.

$450,000 will go to Product Care Association to collect and properly dispose of hazardous waste like spray-foam containers and propane. The project is focused on northern communities to ensure these materials do not enter the environment.  

The Manitoba Association of Regional Recyclers (MARR) is receiving $60,000 to support Manitoba recycling organizations in adapting to the new and developing challenges created by COVID-19.

$185,000 will be used by Cleanfarms to recycle agricultural use plastics like bags and twine.

© News4.ca 2020