An example of how waste from the Northumberland Ribfest was sorted, to keep it out of landfills. (Photo: Submitted / Northumberland County)
Dozens of ribfest events are held across Ontario every summer, but one in our area did things a little differently this year and took a unique approach towards helping the environment.
With the help of the Rotary Club of Cobourg, the Northumberland Ribfest was able to divert 70% of waste generated at the event away from landfills.
The event had a goal of 10% diversion in 2017 and this year was able to divert 4,100 kilograms of corn cobs, rib bones, paper straws, wood forks, napkins and other items.
All of the organic waste was sent to SusGlobal Energy in Belleville for disposal, while recyclable materials including bottles, cans and cups, were sent to the Northumberland County Material Recovery Facility in Grafton.
The zero-waste ribfest initiative is just one of Northumberland County’s planned programs to help increase the lifespan of the Brighton Landfill and eventually reach a county-wide goal of 75% waste diversion.
