Transferring rather than trashing reusable items returns as an option at the Pender Harbour solid waste transfer station, as that facility’s “share shed” re-opens on April 5.
A March 29 press release from the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) stated the reinstatement is a six-month pilot project, during which there will be no charge to the public to either drop off an unwanted but serviceable item or to take possession of something deposited at the shed. The project is to be assessed following the trial period and “drop-off” charges may be considered, if the program is continued.
The share shed at that SCRD facility has not operated since it was closed temporarily in 2020 in keeping with provincial emergency orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hours of operation for the service at the 5545 Garden Bay Road location will be Wednesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What goes in the share shed?
“Staff at the site will be providing quality control of the items going into the share shed and will have the final say on whether items can be added,” the release says.
If brought to the shed in clean and good working condition, children’s toys, housewares, small appliances, sports equipment and tools can be accepted. If space is available, staff will also have the option to allow furniture, with the exception of mattresses and sofa beds, and neutral coloured larger appliances to be included.
Items that will not be accepted include baby and child safety items (including car seats and helmets), clothing, fabric, textiles, bedding, curtains, towels, construction materials, liquids of any kind, paint, cleaning products, or fuels.
The release emphasized that “it’s important for residents to note that the share shed is not there to bypass paying for waste brought to the transfer station…residents are encouraged to contribute good quality items that are no longer wanted but could still be used by others in the community.”
