FoodCycler Program
In February 2023, Selwyn Township launched a FoodCycler Pilot Program. The pilot program was a partnership between the Township and a Canadian company, FoodCycler Science, to pilot an on-site, residential food waste diversion program in Selwyn Township.
| What is a FoodCycler? |
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The FoodCycler is a closed-loop, indoor compost alternative, which speeds up the natural decomposition process of food waste. The unit dries and grinds food waste into a dry, odorless, and nutrient dense by-product. The by-product can be used in many applications, including used as fertilizer in a garden or added to a backyard composter to speed up decomposition. The FoodCycler takes up approximately one (1) cubic foot of space and requires a power outlet. Once set up, you toss your food scraps into the bucket and press the button. The FoodCycler reduces the volume of food waste by 90% in 4-8 hours. Each cycle uses about 0.8-1.5 kWh of electricity, which costs approximately 10 cents. The carbon filtration system eliminates odors, making it perfect for indoor use. |
| Organic Waste Diversion |
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This program would supplement waste diversion efforts in the Township and reduce the amount of organic waste going to landfill. Each FoodCycler has the potential to divert 2 tonnes of food waste over its lifetime. A FoodCycler can be used in combination with a backyard composter or digester to maximize organic waste diversion for your household. The FoodCycler is meant to supplement, not replace, backyard composting. Backyard composting is important to organic waste diversion and provides a solution to divert materials that cannot be processed in a FoodCycler. See the FoodCycler Resident Guide for a list of items that can and cannot be processed in a FoodCycler. |
| The Pilot Program |
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The FoodCycler Pilot Program will help measure the feasibility of using FoodCyclers to support at home composting in Selwyn Township. This program will improve the diversion of organic materials, which helps to protect the environment and extend the lifespan of local landfills. The pilot program is 8 weeks long, running from February 27 to April 24, 2023. Participants will have their choice of two FoodCycler units, the original FoodCycler FC-30 for $169.50 or the new FoodCycler Maestro for $339. During the 8-week period, participants will be asked to track how many times a week they run their FoodCycler and complete a short survey at the end of the pilot period. Participants will receive a FoodCycler Information Guide and Pilot Project Tracking sheet with their FoodCycler. Participating households will keep their FoodCycler following the pilot period. See the Pilot Program Flyer or Resident Guide for more information. |
| Choosing Your FoodCycler |
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Two different FoodCycler units are available for purchase at a subsidized cost. Participants will select the unit they would like to purchase when registering for the pilot program. FoodCycler FC-30
Note: When you need to replace the filters, refillable cartridges can be purchased for both FoodCycler models.
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How to Participate |
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Pollinator Paradise
Help make Selwyn Township a Pollinator Paradise!
In 2018, the Township became a Bee City, which means that the Township is working to support pollinators through habitat creation, protection, and public education.
The Township recently launched a Pollinator Paradise page to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators. The page includes information on how the Township is taking action and ways that you can get involved!
Check out the Pollinator Paradise page
Depave Paradise
In July 2021, Selwyn Township partnered with Peterborough Green Up, Winfield Shores Corporation, and Green Communities Canada on Selwyn Township's first Depave Paradise project!
Volunteers depaved and planted a beautiful 100m2 pocket park at the entrance to Winfield Shores Harbour on Stewart Drive in Lakefield
Depave Paradise is a project of Green Communities Canada and local partners such as GreenUP, in communities across Canada. Volunteers work together to remove unwanted pavement and plant gardens filled with native species in its place. Removing asphalt and concrete at the neighbourhood level is an exciting new trend that renews neglected urban spaces by improving biodiversity and stormwater infiltration potential.
Interested in your own Depave project?
Contact GreenUP for more Information
Rain Ready Program
In partnership with Peterborough GreenUP, the Rain Ready Action Program offered subsidies for rain barrels and waterwise garden kits to help residents reduce the risk of flooding and drought on their properties.
48 rain barrels and 5 waterwise garden kits were purchased by residents in 2022
Selwyn Township also hosted virtual workshops for residents to learn about the role of outdoor landscaping actions to mitigate impacts associated with climate change, learn water wise skills (such as how to install a rain barrel and plant a water wise garden), and ask any questions about design, planting, and ongoing maintenance!
Other Township Successes
- Established a Green Event Policy, which supports event organizers in making sustainable choices when planning an event.
- Launched a Clear Garbage Bag Program to help divert recyclable material from landfills and encourage residents to be more mindful of their waste habits.
- Launched The Link Rural Transportation Service rural transportation system
- Partnered with Kawartha Chamber of Commerce & Tourism (now Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce) to offer webinars to local businesses to learn about ways they can be more environmentally conscious in the way they operate.
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