Zero Waste March Newsletter

Banff strives to be a model environmental community and we need community members like yourself to help us lead the charge.

Learn fascinating facts below about what really happens in the recycling world, how to get involved with zero waste initiatives, and tips from the pros to shrink your garbage at home.

If you know others who would enjoy receiving this newsletter, have them sign up at banff.ca/notify.

“Waste is one of the most visible platforms to address climate change” (EcoCycle)

Most of us agree we’re lucky to live in a postcard where the world visits. That’s why it’s our job to be ambassadors for the environment and keep it pristine.

Banff needs champions like you to stay informed and spread the word as we work toward our waste diversion target of 70% by 2028, and zero waste to landfill by 2050.

Our current diversion rate sits just under 45%. It may seem like we have a long way to go, but with recycling, compost and the zero waste lifestyle becoming more and more common, we are confident that goal is achievable.

Support a local zero waste business

Zero Waste Trailblazers have demonstrated excellence in their efforts to reduce waste going to landfill. Most recently, Nourish Bistro and Botega Salon were awarded Trailblazer status. Check out BanffZeroWasteTrail.ca to learn which local businesses have been named Trailblazers!

Interview with Nourish Bistro
We caught up with Alex Boston of Nourish Bistro to hear about why zero waste is important to him as a restaurant owner in Banff National Park:

TOB: What motivates you to be a zero waste business?

NOURISH: We recognize that the earth is under immense strain right now from land and water usage to air quality and energy consumption. Waste disposal uses all of those elements so we identified that as an area where we can really make an impact.

TOB: What do you still find challenging when it comes to zero waste?

NOURISH: Producer packaging is still our biggest concern. Unfortunately, we have limited say when it comes to items being individually wrapped in plastic etc. We do recycle basically everything but even that requires energy, water, land etc.

TOB: What are you most proud of when it comes to your zero waste initiatives?

NOURISH: Our minimal food scraps program has really cut our organic waste output. It works in two ways. We try to get the maximum use out of all parts of a product. For example. When we juice citrus for the bar, we also take the remaining pulp and husks and dehydrate them for use in desserts.
As well our service revolves around a family or sharing style atmosphere. Our servers help guests tailor their meals so they can try the maximum amount of dishes while having minimal “leftovers.” Anything that is leftover can always be taken home in our compostable containers for later consumption with minimal waste.

TOB: What would be your number 1 tip for other businesses (or residents) in Banff?

NOURISH: Pick a goal and start small. It’s not as daunting a task as it may seem. And remember that recycling is great, but we also need to remember to reduce and reuse as well. Pretty sure Captain Planet taught me that haha.

Reserve a table at Nourish
Make an appointment at Botega

Got an obscure item that you have no idea how to recycle?

The Zero Waste Digital Trail Guide is your Banff-specific waste “google” for all things recycling, compost, and garbage.

Check it out!

The Re-Use It Centre is back!

“One person’s trash is another person’s treasure”

The Re-Use It Centre is open to residents by appointment only. Make a reservation and learn about the COVID-19 safety protocols at Banff.ca/Reuse.

Bear Minimum expands to grocery essentials

At the Bear Minimum, they are always trying to work towards giving you as many sustainable shopping options as possible. After the success of their bulk food weight program in Banff, they will be relaunching the initiative at their new location in Canmore.

This time around the Bear Minimum will be focusing on local & fair trade partners to provide grocery essentials with package-free options. They will have a range of products from produce to baking supplies and will be offering curbside pickup and delivery options as well. The Bear Minimum looks forward to having you join them in their journey towards living as waste-free as possible while supporting local farmers.

Learn More!

Get in touch:
Email us: zerowaste@Banff.ca
Learn more: BanffZeroWasteTrail.ca