City of Nelson Launches Innovative Pre-Treated Organics Program in Fairview Neighbourhood

September 25, 2023 

Nelson, BC –The City of Nelson, in partnership with Food Cycle Science, is excited to announce the official launch of its Pre-Treated Organics Program, designed to revolutionize waste management. Nelson is the first community in Canada to test pre-treating household food waste at a community level. The Fairview neighbourhood has been selected as the pilot area for this Program, which will provide households with a FoodCycler™, an in-home appliance that diverts household food waste at the source. The FoodCycler™ is an innovative device that efficiently and quietly transforms food waste into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. 

The Pre-Treated Organics Program is set to transform how residents manage their food waste with numerous benefits, including cost savings, reduced landfill waste and its associated harmful greenhouse gas emissions, decreased wildlife encounters, and keeping our environment clean and healthy for future generations. By transforming our food waste into valuable soil amendment and keeping it out of the landfill, the Program supports the ambitious goals outlined in the Nelson Next Climate Plan and contributes to a safe and healthy community.

"We are thrilled that the Pre-Treated Organics Program has been introduced to the Fairview neighbourhood," says Mayor Morrison. "This initiative aligns with our commitment to sustainability and provides our residents with a powerful tool that will make a meaningful difference in reducing waste and significantly lowering our footprint." 

A celebration launch event is scheduled for October 4th, 2023, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Prestige Lakeside Resort, with doors opening at 6:30 PM. This event is free of charge and open to the public.

Key Highlights of the Program Launch Event:

• Informative Sessions: Residents will have the opportunity to learn more about the Pre-Treated Organics Program and how the FoodCycler™ will simplify household waste management.
• Guest Speakers: The event will include talks from local leaders, city officials, and project partners who will explain the importance of this innovative Program for Nelson’s future.
• Interactive Experience: Attendees can explore the FoodCycler™ technology up close and discover how it can help reduce our impact, enrich local soil, and promote healthy living. Program partner, Food Cycle Science, will be at the event to answer questions and give demonstrations.

The City of Nelson invites all residents to attend this exciting launch event to discover the FoodCycler™, and learn how they can actively participate in this Program. 

For more information and to register for the Pre-Treated Organics Program, please visit nelson.ca/organics or contact the program team at organics@nelson.ca or (250)352-TALK (8255). 

Your participation matters.

Media Contact:

Carmen Proctor, Climate & Energy Manager, cproctor@nelson.ca

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Photo Caption: Three excited Nelson residents pick-up their new FoodCycler during a scheduled pick-up event. L – R Amélie Sauquet-Davidson, Glyn Humphries and Olwen Humphries 

About the City of Nelson:

The City of Nelson is a vibrant, environmentally conscious community nestled in the heart of the beautiful Kootenay region of British Columbia. Committed to fostering sustainability and quality of life, the City continually strives to implement innovative initiatives that benefit its residents and the environment.