Intensive recycling makes more sense than landfills

Letter Barrie Examiner July 30 2010
(Re: ‘Recycling battle will create another Site 41’ in the July 23 edition of the Examiner)
I have read, with interest, Len Leach’s letter in response to the July 16 story ‘Recycling operation would be another Site 41, group says’.
The letter makes some serious misrepresentations about my views on the Oro-Medonte Township recycling proposal, and waste management in general.
Many people know that I have fought to preserve the quality of our water, and against the development of Site 41, for more than 25 years.
I stand by this position.
The letter implies that I would rather have waste dumped in Oro-Medonte than in Tiny Township, where I presently reside.
Those who understand me know that I’m against landfills wherever they exist. This is the firm belief that guides me, and should guide the decisions made in Oro-Medonte.
Recycling is an essential part of waste management.
All recycling facilities must be properly sited. Information about the environmental impacts of the undertaking must be made available not only to the experts, but to all members of the concerned public as well.
Contrary to what is written in Mr. Leach’s letter, not only do I want to see more analysis but I want to make it available to all.
The best waste solutions will involve intensive recycling and a true commitment to stop the development of landfills.
Stephen Ogden Wyebridge