Efforts to reduce recycling contamination in Smithers could lead to hefty fines for residents.
During their most recent audit in January, the town’s recycling contamination rate was measured at 17 percent.
In their contract with Recycle BC, the town is supposed to maintain a rate of no higher than 3 percent.
In order to correct this, the town has adopted a new Solid Waste Bylaw.
Part of that bylaw introduces fines of up to 2 thousand dollars for putting non-recyclable materials out for curbside collection.
Though residents won’t face drastic charges immediately, from now on, collectors will not take your recycling if it contains such materials.
They will also afix a note explaining why it was in violation.
