Dear editor,

I have been following with interest the articles and letters relating to the new garbage system starting in January.

My main response to the articles and letters is a concern that we could get sidetracked from some of the key issues regarding waste and recycling, namely:

• We have a responsibility to manage our environment as best we can, not just for ourselves but also for those who come after us. Minimizing what goes to the landfill and maximizing what is recycled is one aspect of that.

• If we do not sort our waste and recycling correctly, our carelessness can undo the good work done by all our neighbours - the so-called ‘garbage police’ are not there to try and catch us, but to protect the good work of the majority.

• We are all unique individuals and no two households are going to be the same - so our standardized garbage system will probably suit none of us 100 per cent. However, if we are to function as a community, we need to do what we can to make the system work (which could include giving feedback and suggestions on how to improve its operation).

• It should also be remembered that we are not the first city to introduce an automated garbage and waste collection system - our city hall has the benefit of learning from the experiences of others in developing best practices, so perhaps we should listen to the experts before jumping in with our two cents worth?

In closing, regarding concerns raised about those who ‘roam the alleys’ and empty out bins on the sidewalk looking for refundable recycling, we might consider using one of our ‘soon to be obsolete’ blue bins for separating the refundable items for easier collection by those who rely on them for some income.

Rod Montague,

Courtenay