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Let's Talk Trash: Trash diversion apps

In an era when all things waste-related are becoming more complex, it is only fair that some apps are available to help us navigate and cope.
Let’s Talk Trash
ONLINE ADVICE: Powell River Regional District’s Let’s Talk Trash team suggests area residents check out online apps to help remind them when the next recycling or garbage pickup day is, rather than relying on notes written on scrap paper. Contributed photo

In an era when all things waste-related are becoming more complex, it is only fair that some apps are available to help us navigate and cope.
Here are Let’s Talk Trash team’s top three trash diversion apps:

ReCollect: When is pickup day again?

No matter how good someone is at making lists, reminders from another source can be beneficial. For anyone who has ever forgotten garbage or recycling pickup days, ReCollect may be the answer to helping them recall all of the items on their to-do list, including garbage and recycling day.
Look for ReCollect on Google Play, download the free app, enter an address and choose how (and when) to receive a reminder about the next collection day.
It may finally be time do away with one more sticky note on the front door. The lucky 400 Powell River area residents selected for the curbside compost pilot project can receive an additional notification for that pickup as well.

TrashOut: How can we track illegal dumping?

Next time you go wandering in the woods and come across a dumpsite, the TrashOut app will give you tools to do something about it. The free app allows users to take a photo of the trash while it automatically locates it via GPS on a map all TrashOut app users can access.
It then walks users through a few simple questions about the size and nature of the garbage, allowing them or others to return to the site prepared to clean it up.
The annual Trash Bash event makes use of this app to help volunteers locate and clean up trash sites.

BC Recyclepedia: Where do I recycle tires, medication and light bulbs?

After cleaning out a basement or garage, you may have a pile of recyclable items you want to dispose of properly, but have no idea where to start.
In terms of apps, BC Recyclepedia is a good place to begin. While not an exhaustive list, and admittedly including some errors, it is decent in a pinch.
The Waste Wise Guide (available at letstalktrash.ca) is the more reliable, go-to location for a local list of where to recycle what, but is not in app form.
All households should have received it in the mail. Need a paper copy? Let’s Talk Trash always has some on hand when out hosting an information booth.

Maybe it’s time to become a digital-waste warrior.

Let’s Talk Trash is Powell River Regional District’s waste-management education program.