Emterra Partners with Niagara Region for Successful Residential Used Battery Collection Program

Nov. 29, 2012 - PRLog -- Niagara Region and waste collection and management contractor Emterra Environmental concluded a successful curbside used battery collection pilot program. Residents of the communities of Welland, Port Colborne and Pelham disposed of 2,509 kg (5,532 lbs) of batteries.  The intent of the pilot was to assess feasibility of curbside collection in low density residential areas.

Typical household batteries were collected (AA, AAA and 9-Volt) and residents were asked to place them in clear plastic bags next to their recyclables. Recycled battery material can be used as raw material inputs for the manufacturing of entirely new products. By diverting such materials from landfill, the community and environment both win. Commodities from waste can often generate revenue while being a “green” option.

Regional Chair Gary Burroughs said, "Niagara Region is consistently seeking ways to improve waste diversion and curbside collection options for residents and this program shows one of the innovative opportunities we are looking to consider in the future." Residents of the communities participating in the pilot are being surveyed to assess their feedback and practicality for future waste collection program delivery. The survey can be accessed on the Region’s website at www.niagararegion.ca/waste. Recommendations on the feasibility of expanding the program regionally will be presented in early 2013.

The notion of diverting all possible material from landfill is in keeping with the overarching mission of the Emterra Group of environmental service companies. Emterra’s “zero waste” philosophy is based on the mantra that asks “Do you see waste or opportunity?” This guiding philosophy has enabled Emterra to work with municipalities and institutional customers to increase the diversion of materials typically considered waste into useful commodities.

The Niagara Region battery collection pilot program was part of part of the Stewardship Ontario Orange Drop program. All transportation costs were paid by industry through Stewardship Ontario and Emterra Environmental provided the curbside battery collection at no additional cost to the Region.

Emterra Group (www.emterra.ca) is the parent company of Emterra Environmental, and also operates sister divisions Emterra Tire Recycling and Canadian Liquids Processors. Emterra Group companies operate in Ontario, BC, Manitoba and will launch soon in Saskatchewan. Creating healthier communities while striving to achieve its “zero waste” mission is part of Emterra Group’s ongoing commitment.