A new Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) for the Capital Region has been developed which aims to reduce how much material is sent to Hartland Landfill and guide how the community’s waste materials are managed - in a safe, secure and sustainable way now and in the future.

One of the key actions identified in the SWMP, the Rethink Waste Community Grant program will provide funding for the development and implementation of community-based projects that align with the 5R pollution prevention hierarchy of moving waste materials out of landfills to their highest and best next use.

Projects should fulfill one or more of the following:

  • Foster long-term behavioral change through consumer responsibility
  • Increase awareness of reuse and recycling opportunities and access to services
  • Educate on the importance of source separation and its impact on highest next use of materials
  • Advance the life cycle of materials towards a circular economy
  • Establish or expand local services for managing unwanted items

Rethink Waste Community Grant Spotlight Stories:

Who can apply?

Applicants can be individuals, groups of individuals, or non-profit organizations within the Capital Region. For-profit businesses are not eligible for this program.

Examples of eligible applicants include:

  • Resident, tenant, neighborhood and business groups
  • Community and religious organizations
  • Registered charitable and non-profit organizations
  • School, university or college groups, clubs, parent councils
  • Local governments and First Nation community groups

Learn more about successful grant recipients by watching this playlist.

What are some examples of eligible projects?

  • Creation of a pop-up free store
  • Purchase of individual kitchen containers for multi-family residents to collect organics
  • Support for a tool shed or lending library
  • Three stream waste removal at community events (compost, recycling and garbage)
  • Purchasing a dishwasher to eliminate use of single use plates/cutlery
  • Renovating space in a multi-family building to support source separated collection
  • Worm bin composters for classrooms

Learn more about the different types of projects that have received funding by watching this playlist.

How will applications be evaluated?

The following criteria will be used to evaluate WRG applications:

  • Waste reduction
  • Community engagement
  • Partnerships
  • Legacy potential
  • Outcomes and measurement
Areas such as innovation, climate action, circular economy and impact on 5R hierarchy will also be considered.

Is there an application deadline?

Applications are processed on a first come, first serve basis throughout the year. Funds are limited so get your application in early!

When will I know the result of my application?

Applicants will be notified within 30 days whether or not the application has been approved for funding.

When will funds be available?

Funds will be paid after the project has been completed and the applicant has requested payment by completing and submitting a final report. Requests for an advance on funds in order to purchase supplies or equipment will be considered.

The CRD reserves the right to audit all projects. Please retain supporting documentation including invoices and receipts for two years.

What amount of funding is available?

There is $50,000 worth of grant funding available annually for this program. Applicants can apply for up to $3,000 per project.

What are the communication requirements of successful projects?

Communications

Recipients will be asked to acknowledge financial assistance from CRD in their communications.

For projects where the general public is invited to participate, we can assist with promotion.

Media release form:

What are the final reporting requirements?

A final report detailing the outcomes of the project will be required. Please include:

  • Project name/Applicant
  • Goals/Objectives
  • Achievements (community engagement, waste reduction, pictures, etc.)
  • Project cost/Use of grant funds
  • Legacy/Next steps

How do I apply?

The online application process has been designed to keep this program easily accessible. If a detailed project description has been prepared it can be submitted with the application.

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