Dear Editor:
I was delighted with the idea of recycling food scraps, but not as much anymore. Maggots have overtaken the bins. Not only are they visible inside the bins, they are in the crevices, in the lids, and most disturbingly, on the surrounding floors around the bins. I cannot help but gag when I have to recycle my scraps. Our caretaker has spoken to other caretakers in our area, and they have the same concerns we have.
I do not think much thought has been given to this problem before initiating this program. I phoned city hall and spoke with the individual in charge of food scraps recycling, and I got a cold, indifferent response. This individual stated that it is the caretaker’s responsibility. I was trying to be part of the solution and suggested that city hall provide environmentally friendly heavy-duty bags with closures at the top. I got no response.
As with all governmental agencies, there is much financial waste everywhere. The initiators of the program should provide citizens with bags in which to dispose of the scraps safely. I understand that we are to wrap the scraps in newspaper, which few of us do. However, the majority of people do not take the care to do this. As a result, every time I have to recycle my scraps, I am disgusted by the maggots crawling everywhere.
Haven’t your professionals examined the consequences of the majority of non-compliant people? In addition, the large bins become extremely heavy and are very difficult to manoeuvre uphill if necessary. I feel sorry for the caretakers.
Unfortunately, this idea has many drawbacks. Not only is it unsightly, it is unsanitary and a health hazard.
I would appreciate a response to this upsetting dilemma. I have forwarded copies of this letter to the following people: Mr. Keith Loughlin, Strateco manager, Mr. Derek Corrigan, Mayor of Burnaby, Burnaby City Hall health department and Burnaby City Hall food recycling program.
A concerned citizen and retired RN,
Krystyna Clarke, Burnaby
