They are cleaning up our planet one drop at a time.
The British Columbia Used Oil Management Association has sent out their ambassadors again this year, to spread the word on the hazards of dumping oil and what other options are available.
Ali Omelaniec and Emily Louie are traveling British Columbia, attending numerous events in hopes of educating the public on how they can recycle their used oil, antifreeze and even oil filters, free of charge.
They are also stopping off at each of the 520 recycling facilities throughout B.C. to hear feedback, answer questions, and find ways in which they can make their program even easier for both the facilities and the public.
While things seem to be running smoothly, one issue that Salmon Arm Kal Tire is running into is nighttime drop-offs.
People will come when the shop is closed and leave their buckets of oil sitting outside. The problem with this is that if the bucket leaks or gets knocked over during the night, it creates a huge mess.
This, according to Omelaniec, is a concern for many facilities.
“We want to make sure that the program doesn’t cause any problems for our collections facilities. Issues like these can discourage them, and cause them to back out of the program,” says Omelaniec.
“We are working on finding ways to fix this problem.”
One way to deter nighttime drop-offs, according to Omelaniec, is to remind the public of the hours of operation.
“Most garages that operate our program are open on Saturdays,” says Omelaniec. Many are also open until 6 p.m..
The two ambassadors will also be speaking to government officials later this month.
Omelaniec and Louie just began their travels in May and both are from Metro Vancouver. The ambassador program not only allows them to spread the word on how people can save the planet but also gives them a chance to see small communities as well as larger cities.
Since the association was formed, there has been a 73 per cent recovery rate, and the organization is aiming even higher.
The program is actively trying to make recycling easier for the public, creating more ‘one-stop-shops’ where possible.
Any business interested in becoming a recycling facility can do so by visiting the website at www.usedoilrecycling.com or by calling 604-703-1990.
Businesses will be responsible for collecting used oil and/or antifreeze and filters, and pick-up will be arranged as often as seen necessary. All businesses will be given a payment for every litre of oil collected, as well as antifreeze and oil filters.
A cell phone application has also been made available called BC Recyclopedia which allows users to find the recycling depot nearest them.