For a community that prides itself on its environmental activism and championing of the environment, some of us are just downright pigs.
Yes, you read right, pigs.
The amount of illegal dumping that is going on up and down the Coast is staggering. A recent trip out to the woods turned up shocking evidence of the complete and utter disregard that some are showing our environment. We couldn't walk more than a few metres into the bush without stumbling across construction waste, old appliances and furniture, mattresses and old tires. Last time we checked, none of the above was compost friendly.
It's shocking to see what some people think they can get away with. It's even more shocking that some people are so disrespectful to the environment.
But the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) is doing its part to combat the problem by launching a new on-line tool. An illegal dumpsite map has been created where more than 200 dumpsites have been mapped and reported so the SCRD and citizen volunteers can help co-ordinate site clean-ups. By clicking on the map, details of the dump locations are displayed, including what materials are at the site. It's a wonderful new tool and one we hope that the community will use. We'd also like to see some of our environmental groups step up to the plate a bit more. It's all fine and good to take a stand to protect our watersheds and forests, but if illegal dumping continues, there will be no forests and watersheds left to protect.
Our governments should also be working harder to beef up bylaws to curb illegal dumping. While laws are in place prohibiting illegal dumping, those responsible must be caught in the act, which makes it very difficult for bylaw officers or conservation officers to act. But there has to be a better way, and maybe the SCRD mapping tool is that way.
And we would like to point out to all those irresponsible folks that there are plenty of ways to dispose of your items in a safe manner instead of heading out to the bush and dumping illegally.
Gibsons Recycling Depot will take many of the items, as will the landfill. If the appliances are in good working order, why not stop by the Habitat Restore in Sechelt or call one of the many charitable organizations on the Coast such as the Salvation Army? If the item is still useable and is in good shape, it could find a needy home instead of being left in the bush to rot. After all, one man's trash is another man's treasure.
Illegal dumping is a growing problem, but a problem that can be solved if we all work together. But first, a little common sense must be used.
