Solid Waste

The City's Solid Waste Branch of the Engineering Department is responsible for garbage, recycling and composting programs.

The City of Vancouver is committed to participate in the regional solid waste management plan with three primary goals:

to minimize waste generation
to maximize reuse, recycling and energy recovery
to manage residuals responsibly

Vancouver Landfill

Methane gas captured from the Vancouver Landfill is being used to generate heat and electricity. Methane is created when garbage breaks down in a landfill. It is over 20 times more effective in trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, making it a greenhouse gas of significant concern. Previously, the City of Vancouver collected the methane and converted it into carbon dioxide using flares. In 2003, the City of Vancouver upgraded the landfill facility to make the best use of landfill gas. The City partnered with Maxim Power Corp who built a system to utilize the landfill gas. It is collected, then cooled to remove water and siloxanes prior to being piped to a powerhouse. At the powerhouse, landfill gas is converted to electricity. Waste heat from the engines is collected in the form of hot water and utilized in nearby Hot House Growers' Village Farms greenhouses. Additional gas collection wells are installed as more waste is placed in the landfill.

The project produces enough electricity for 7,000 households.

Over the next 20 years the City of Vancouver will receive $250,000 to $300,000 in energy revenues each year, which will offset the cost of operating the landfill gas control system.

Other initiatives at the landfill include a large yard trimmings composting facility and wildlife habitat.

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