Public engagement project overview
The Township of Esquimalt carried out a study in late 2020 to assess if integrated resource management (IRM) through the use of a gasification plant is possible and of interest to the Esquimalt community. Read the news release.
This plant would process municipal solid waste, kitchen scraps and yard/garden waste streams.
Winter 2023-2024 update
There is a biochar testing plan in development. Staff will return to Council for next steps in Q2 2024.
Spring 2022 update
The township will not be pursuing further investigation into IRM at this time after consideration of township resources, including staff time and budget.
The goal of IRM is to help with climate action. The township currently has several initiatives in progress that are actionable projects to reduce climate change, both short-term and long-term. These include both a Climate Adaptation and a Climate Mitigation Plan; the Active Transportation Network Plan; forthcoming updated Urban Forest Strategy and new Inflow/Infiltration plan.
The 2021 business case is based on proprietary information and was shared confidentially with staff and council.
Council is supportive of a regional approach to IRM and the CRD’s exploration of thermal technologies to manage biosolids. See the April 4 resolution.
Summer 2021 update
The township is seeking proposals to help in the production of an IRM business case. The business case would examine three solid waste streams and how to utilize gasification for the management of these streams.
Fall 2020 update
Frequently asked questions
The township is currently undergoing a public engagement phase with the results to be shared with council as part of council's evaluation of the initiative. Through a short survey, residents and business owners are asked how they feel about a possible IRM approach to managing waste in Esquimalt.
How you can participate
- Before taking the survey, learn about the project through:
- Viewing the original presentation to council on July 6 as well as mayor and council comments after the presentation
- Viewing the informative video
- Reading the project overview
- Reading the project summary report
- Reading the technical report
- Viewing the recording of the September 22 live webinar
Thank you to the Esquimalt Farmers Market for hosting our booth on September 17.
Next steps
Council will see the results of the public engagement campaign presented in a report to at a Committee of the Whole meeting this fall. You're invited to share feedback at the meeting in addition to the survey. The final date for the meeting will be published in advance to allow for input opportunities.
Questions?
Email engineering@esquimalt.ca or call 250-414-7108.
You may also submit your thoughts to council directly at mayorandcouncil@esquimalt.ca