TRAIL – New Democrat MLA Katrine Conroy says new funding for K-C Recycling in Trail and the Kootenay Outdoor and Environmental Learning Society (KOELS) in Rossland for new projects will help tackle plastic waste, support innovative technologies, and create local jobs.

“We all know we need to do more to create a truly circular economy, and I’m really excited to see that happening right here in the Kootenays,” said MLA Conroy. “These grants will keep plastics out of landfills, instead turning them into useful products, and create good local jobs that we can all be proud of.”

K-C Recycling Ltd. in Trail will upgrade their plant to process plastic waste casings associated with lead-acid car batteries, which will then be used to manufacture new car batteries. KOELS will begin processing hard-to-recycle plastics, such as fridge inserts, to produce goods for the local ski community, and also plans to have an education and demonstration centre to showcase circular solutions for small communities.

These projects are two of nine being funded as part of the Clean BC Plastics Action Fund, with K-C Recycling receiving $852,997 and KOELS receiving $14,000.

Recognizing the rapid growth of plastics in manufacturing and the need to address plastic waste, the New Democrat government is providing $5 million in funding to encourage innovative technologies, support the circular economy for plastics, increase local processing capacity for recycled plastics, turn used plastics into new products, and create good, clean jobs. The funded projects will replace or recycle over 20,000 tonnes of plastic per year. Projects were chosen based on their ability to increase processing capacity, increase the use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic in manufacturing, or support PCR plastic product research, design and testing.

This funding is an important part of the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan and a key piece to the New Democrat’s strategy to tackle climate change. Putting B.C. on the path to a brighter, low-carbon future while creating new jobs and economic opportunities for people.

The initiative is also part of B.C.’s $10 billion COVID response, which includes the StrongerBC for Everyone recovery plan — a plan that protects people’s health and livelihoods while supporting businesses and communities

Learn More: 

For more information: Turning used plastic into new opportunity

Learn more about the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan: https://cleanbc.gov.bc.ca/plastics