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Reduce, Reuse & Recycle
​Electric Vehicles
Saving Water
Saving Energy
Yard, Garden & Food Waste
Waste Collection & Landfills
Bear Awareness

Reduce, Reuse & Recycle
There are three recycling depots on the Sunshine Coast that accept residential recyclables such as paper, containers (plastic, metal and glass), foam packaging, plastic bags and overwrap, in Gibsons, Sechelt and Pender Harbour. The Sunshine Coast Regional District has a complete listing of materials accepted for recycling on the Sunshine Coast, from small and large appliances and paint to electronics and batteries.

There are also many ways to find or donate used items on the Coast and options to share and repair items. Thrift Stores, Libraries and Car-Sharing are just some of the options available. If you are looking to reduce packaging of home and personal products, refill stores allow you to stock up on bulk items, purchase alternatives to single-use plastics and more.

Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular and the southern Sunshine Coast has responded to the demand by installing a number of charging stations. The District of Sechelt, Town of Gibsons and Sunshine Coast Regional District have prepared an Electric Vehicle Charging Plan covering the installation of charging infrastructure and more. If you have an electric vehicle or are interested in owning one, The Sunshine Coast Electric Vehicle Association welcomes new members. Membership provides information about EV events and resources and allows you to be a part of the Coast's electric vehicle community.

Saving Water
It is essential that we reduce our water consumption. Saving water in our homes is as simple as taking shorter showers and turning the tap off while washing dishes. Current water use restrictions are continuously updated by the Sunshine Coast Regional District. They also provide tips regarding garden irrigation, which is the biggest use of fresh water, especially during the summer.

​It is also essential that we keep our fresh water supply clean. Never pour harmful chemicals such as motor oil and gasoline down toilets or drains as it all finds its way back into the water system. There are a variety of locations to properly dispose of hazardous chemicals.

Saving Energy
Making a few simple improvements around our homes can help reduce energy consumption considerably, which not only helps to protect the environment but can also save us money. Some simple changes include turning lights off in rooms you’re not using, ensuring electronics are completely shut down when not in use and adjusting window blinds to keep heat out in the summer and in during the winter.

Yard, Garden & Food Waste
It’s a great idea to set up a composting system in your backyard, but for many it simply isn’t possible. The good news is residents can drop off yard, garden and food waste to Salish Soils in Sechelt. The Town of Gibsons and District of Sechelt have also implemented curbside organics collection, though both programs are currently in their infancy. They can be contacted for further information.

Did you know? Over 44% of what is in our residential garbage can be composted instead of sent to the Sechelt Landfill. Diverting food scraps and other organics is one of the biggest opportunities to reduce the amount of garbage on the Sunshine Coast.

Waste Collection & Landfills
Based on your area of residence, information about curbside garbage collection services of non-toxic, municipal solid waste can be found by contacting the District of Sechelt, the Town of Gibsons or the Sunshine Coast Regional District.

The SCRD’s service provides pick-up for residences that are within the garbage collection service area in: Halfmoon Bay (Electoral Area B), Roberts Creek (Electoral Area D), Elphinstone (Electoral Area E) and West Howe Sound (Electoral Area F). Pender Harbour & Egmont (Electoral Area A) residents can self-haul residential garbage to the Pender Harbour Transfer Station or hire a private service provider.

The Sechelt Landfill and the Pender Harbour Transfer Station are available for residents to drop off items either too big or not accepted by weekly garbage collection. Many materials are diverted to be reused or recycled. Please note that disposal fees may apply.

Bear Awareness

Picture
A black bear finding a snack in Sandy Hook, Sechelt.
Sightings of black bears are increasingly common throughout the Sunshine Coast. A typical black bear will be approximately four to seven feet long and two to three feet in height. They are recognizable by their small eyes, rounded ears, long snout, short tail and shaggy, black fur.

Black bears make their way into urban areas during the spring and summer months when they are in search of food after their long winter hibernation. Unfortunately, it is because they are able to find food around our homes that bears continue to make an appearance.

To help mitigate bear sightings in urban areas, consider the following tips:
  • Keep your garbage in the house or in an enclosed garage or shed and only put out your garbage can the morning of your collection day
  • Keep your garbage cans clean and manage your outdoor compost bins to reduce odours that can attract bears
  • Manage your fruit trees and berry bushes responsibly by picking all the fruit as it ripens
Wild Safe BC is a useful resource to learn about and live amongst the various wildlife species native to the southern Sunshine Coast.

If you have seen a bear in your neighbourhood and feel it may pose a threat, contact the Conservation Officer Service line at 1-877-952-7277.

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