In-Vessel Composter at UBC

Location

6035 Nurseries Rd.

Vancouver, BC

Canada

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Certifications & Awards
  • APPA’s Effective and Innovative Practices Award 2006
Project Team
  • Owner: UBC Plant Operations
  • Operated by: UBC Waste Management
  • Environmental Consultants: Wright Environmental Management Inc.
  • Environmental Consultants: Gartner Lee Limited

Summary

The in-vessel composter is the first of its kind at a Canadian university and has been operating since September 2004. It is a large-scale, fully enclosed system capable of processing up to 5 tonnes of food waste per day and produces compost in a matter of only two weeks that is in turn used on the university lanscapes. Organic waste is collected from over 70 locations on campus each week, decreasing trips to the landfill by 54%. The composter maintains optimal temperature, moisture, and oxygen levels, thus maximizing rates of microbial decomposition and negating the use of chemicals. The enclosed system eliminates the risk of odours, leachates, and rodents, making it an extremely community-friendly device.

www.recycle.ubc.ca

Tours: Available upon request. Call 604-822-9456.