(Cochrane, AB) – Starting December 1, Cochrane residents will see new waste collection trucks in their neighbourhood, as BluPlanet Recycling has been named Cochrane’s new partner in waste management. BluPlanet’s distinctive white, blue and green truck will be taking over Cochrane’s weekly curbside collection for waste, organics and recycling.
While the vehicles collecting community waste may look different, the current service delivery model will remain the same. Residents are reminded to place their carts out on the curb by 7 a.m. on the scheduled collection day, to ensure their cart is collected.
“As Cochrane’s new partner in waste management and diversion, BluPlanet Recycling brings advanced technology that will further our efforts to divert waste from the landfill,” says Shane Hubl, Director of Operations, Town of Cochrane. “In addition to evaluating our current practices, collection routes and service areas, the trucks will be equipped with advanced GPS tracking and cameras. This new data helps us to respond directly to issues or trends and make adjustments when needed.”
The selection of BluPlanet marks the completion of an extensive RFP process, aimed at finding a partner capable meeting Cochrane’s residential waste management needs, while also advancing waste diversion targets under Cochrane’s Sustainability Plan and Zero Waste Framework. In coming months, Town staff will work with BluPlanet to evaluate the current service model and look for opportunities to improve service delivery, value for service and waste diversion.
“The fully equipped BluPlanet trucks provide our department with new opportunities to identify where we can further educate residents on how to sort waste and use their green, blue and black carts,” says Fabrizio Bertolo, Manager, Waste & Recycling, Town of Cochrane. “If drivers notice mixed materials, residents will receive a sorting reminder to improve their sorting for next time.”
Under the Cochrane sustainability plan, waste diversion programs have been available in Cochrane since 2012. Through their innovative technology, BluPlanet will play an active role in reducing contamination in Cochrane’s waste streams and bringing education to residents, providing an enhanced level of service without increased costs to residents.
As a reminder, Cochrane’s winter collection scheduled has now resumed with organics collection occurring bi-weekly. For personalized schedule notifications, download the My Cochrane Collection or visit cochrane.ca/wasteandrecycling for a printable calendar and more information on Waste, Organics and Recycling in Cochrane.