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Why We Should Be Damn Proud to Be Vancouver Islanders
Islanders don’t wait for someone else to fix things—we get our hands dirty.
We have some of the wildest, most beautiful nature in the world. Of course, we fight for it.
Whether you’re a fifth-generation local or a newcomer who fell in love with the trees, this is home, and we protect what we love.
Call to action: So let’s keep pushing forward. One piece of upcycled ‘garbage’ at a time.
Just SOME Incredible Local Recycling and Upcycling Initiatives
Just SOME Incredible Local Recycling and Upcycling Initiatives
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Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North's ReStore Upcycle Challenge
This annual event encourages community members to transform items from ReStore into creative, functional pieces. The challenge promotes upcycling and raises awareness about sustainable practices. Participants have the chance to win prizes, making it accessible for both seasoned upcyclers and newcomers.
Shellter: Upcycling Oyster Shells
Shellter is a startup focused on repurposing discarded oyster shells from restaurants into valuable products like nutrient-rich compost and eco-friendly road de-icer. This initiative exemplifies circular economy principles by turning waste into resources.
Mudgirls Natural Building Collective
The Mudgirls are a not-for-profit collective of female natural builders based throughout Vancouver Island and surrounding areas. They specialize in using natural, local, and recycled materials to construct various structures, from small ovens to multi-story homes. Their work emphasizes sustainable development and empowers women in the traditionally male-dominated field of construction.
Construction Waste Recycling Programs
A program has been launched on Vancouver Island to divert construction waste materials—such as lumber, brick, and carpet—from landfills. By connecting construction and manufacturing companies, this initiative aims to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable building practices.
Community Drop-Off Bins: Convenient & Charitable
Scattered across Vancouver Island, these bins make recycling and donating easy. Many accept clothing, shoes, books, and household items for local charities, while others collect recyclables like glass and electronics. A simple way to give back while reducing waste!
Facilities such as Island Foods' Recycling Depot in North Vancouver Island provide accessible recycling options for residents, supporting community efforts to manage waste responsibly.
Recycling Council of British Columbia (RCBC)
RCBC provides information on local residential recycling services, province-wide Extended Producer Responsibility and stewardship programs, as well as share, reuse, and repair options. Their resources, like the Recyclepedia app, help residents find recycling options for various materials across BC.
Capital Regional District (CRD) Recycling Programs
The CRD manages the region's landfill and offers programs to help manage materials and keep waste out of Hartland Landfill. They follow the 5R approach: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover, and Residuals management. Services include curbside recycling, hazardous waste disposal, and education on waste reduction.
Check out these inspiring Recycling Project Art already in the works, or these incredible Upcyclers making a difference!
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