Sioux Lookout is running a second foodcycler pilot program after a successful initial pilot last year.

The town has partnered with FoodCycle Science for the pilot aimed at increasing at-home composting while diverting food waste from the landfill.

75 FoodCycler machines will be available for purchase at discounted rates of $150.00 plus HST for the FC-30 model, normally priced at $500.00, and $300.00 plus HST for the Maestro model, normally $800.00.

These discounted rates are available in exchange for users recording their usage over a 12-week period. Once the pilot is complete, the machines can continue to be used without further obligation.

“The FoodCycler is very quick, compared to traditional composting,” explained Economic Development Officer, Jennifer Esposito. “It processes food waste in a matter of hours instead of months, it is easy to clean and operate and doesn’t require any special training to use.”

“Using a FoodCycler reduces our greenhouse gas impact and reduces the volume of waste going to the landfill. The benefits should be easily measurable,” added Esposito.

FoodCycle Science is looking to use the data received, in tandem with feedback from residents and staff to determine the feasibility of a FoodCycler food waste diversion program for Sioux Lookout and similar communities.

Last year’s pilot was well received with 100 per cent of users indicating they would continue to use their cycler beyond the pilot period.

Each resident in the program diverted approximately 0.5 bags of household waste per week, so each participating household could be diverting nearly 30 bags of food waste from the landfill each year.

FoodCycler can be purchased online from June 17, at 8:00 a.m. until July 21, at 1:00 p.m., while supplies last. Residents who have purchased a cycler can pick them up on July 15 and July 16 or by appointment.

For more information on the FoodCycler pilot program, to purchase a unit, or to download the Resident Guide to the program, please click here.