Removing organics from the garbage is a key waste diversion strategy in Durham Region and has helped to achieve over 50 per cent diversion. Currently organics are managed through yard waste collection, Christmas tree pick-ups and the Green Bin program.
In 2008, Durham Regional Council set a target of 70 per cent diversion. In 2018, our diversion rate was 64 per cent.
To continue to work towards 70 per cent diversion, Durham Region will be constructing a Waste Pre-Sort and Anaerobic Digestion facility to manage the organics from the Green Bin program, multi-residential buildings and from the garbage.
| What is Anaerobic Digestion? |
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Anaerobic digestion is a process where organics are broken down (degraded) by microbial bacteria in the absence of oxygen under controlled conditions. This process produces biogas, compost liquid wastes and solid residue. The digestion of organics takes place in an speical reactor (or enclosed chamber) where critical environmental conditions such as moisture content, temperature and pH levels are controlled to maximize biogas generation and organic decomposition rates. |
| Where will a Waste Pre-Sort and Anaerobic Digestion facility be located? |
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Currently, a siting study is being undertaken to determine locations that meet specific criteria within the Region. As well, public consultation will be completed prior to deciding on a site.
A Public Information Centre (PIC) is scheduled for: Date: Thursday, February 27, 2020 Where: Region of Durham Headquarters Address: 605 Rossland Road East, Whitby Time: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Room: LLC (on the lower level)
Six potential candidate sites are being evaluated to identify the most suitable location for this facility:
At the PIC, the study team will provide information and answer questions about the proposed facility and site selection process. |
| Other benefits from a Waste Pre-Sort and Anaerobic Digestion facility |
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In addition to diverting organics that are sorted from the waste stream, other benefits include:
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