This fall, Cleanfarms is rolling out a significant initiative on Vancouver Island and in the Fraser Valley, British Columbia. The program encourages farmers to participate in the safe disposal of unwanted agricultural pesticides and outdated livestock/equine medications. It's a shining example of environmental stewardship, showing the agricultural industry’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
From October 2 to October 13, the collection events will be operational at three municipal depots on Vancouver Island and four ag retailer locations in the Fraser Valley. The events signify the industry's dedication to environmental sustainability, with farmers showing enthusiasm in ensuring their farms remain clean and free from hazardous waste.
Barry Friesen, Cleanfarms’ Executive Director, expressed the importance of this program to the farmers. They acknowledge the significance of proper waste disposal, avoiding landfills and contributing to a healthier environment. The initiative is fully funded by the crop protection industry and the Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI), covering all operational costs and safe disposal of materials.
Since its inception, Cleanfarms has collected over 4,200 tonnes of unwanted pesticides and 67.3 tonnes of obsolete farm animal medications across Canada. The materials accepted in the program include agricultural pesticides, commercial pesticides, and livestock/equine medications used on farms.
However, the program has specific exclusions. Fertilizers, full and unopened jugs of adjuvant, treated seed, needles, medicated feed, domestic pesticides, and other household hazardous waste are not accepted. The objective is to focus on agricultural waste that poses environmental risks.
Cleanfarms rotates this program across different Canadian regions every three years. It aims to return to Vancouver Island and the Fraser Valley in 2026, ensuring a continuous effort in eco-friendly agricultural waste disposal.
Cleanfarms is a stewardship organization contributing to a healthier environment and a sustainable future by recovering and recycling agricultural and related industry plastics, packaging, and products. The organization also collects empty plastic agricultural containers, grain bags, and twine for recycling, showcasing its commitment to a cleaner environment.