North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice hails funding award for Gitxaala Nation towards recycling aims

The Gitxaala First Nation has received a grant from the Province for $320,000, the money to be put towards the Nation's work towards reduction of plastic waste in the community.

The funding was part of a large roll out for Indigenous led initiatives yesterday, with North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice noting of the Gitxaala plans.

“I know this funding will make a positive impact on the Gitxaała Nation, and on the rest of the province who have so much to learn from First Nations about sustainability,

Not only will this project cut down on single-use plastic, but will improve community events and the distribution of meals.”

The Funding for the Gitxaala Nation initiative will see the Nation expand their existing reuse and recycling facility, and pilot methods to eliminate single-use containers. 

This will include a commercial dishwasher and storage, allowing reusable containers and bags to be used for take-out and delivery services. 

Towards the larger program, the province observed as to how the Indigenous led projects will serve to 

support Zero waste initiatives

The Indigenous-led projects will establish new ways of processing and reusing post-consumer plastics, promote reusable systems, educate community members and create local jobs. 

All projects have one year to be completed. 

This supports the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan’s goal of changing how plastic is designed and used, from temporary and disposable to durable and reusable.

You can explore the full list of the projects that have received funding on Wednesday.

More notes from the Legislature can be reviewed here.