Commercial Organics Diversion

Institutional, commercial, and industrial (ICI) waste currently makes up 49% of waste produced in the County. Implementing waste diversion for these businesses will advance Strathcona County’s circular economy, waste reduction and climate goals.

A circular economy is one where we look at waste as a resource. And we manage all our resources by keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible in their most valuable form. Conserving our resources reduces our environmental impact and is economically efficient. 

Strathcona County is committed to exploring options to expand the Circular Economy as part of the County’s 10-year Waste Roadmap. 

Commercial Organic Waste Pilot

During recent engagement on Strathcona County’s Waste Management Roadmap, the County heard from businesses that they have different waste management needs that come with different challenges.

Led by the Circular Innovation Council, businesses and industry generating food and food waste in Strathcona County were invited to participate in a food rescue and organic waste pilot that began in June 2024. This short-term pilot will determine waste management barriers, motivations and cost considerations for businesses.

These businesses have the chance to influence the development of future diversion strategies, incentives and regulatory requirements for the commercial sector in Strathcona County.

As part of the pilot surplus edible food is be directed to local social agencies while other organic waste will be collected to be turned into compost for local farms.

More information is available on the project webpage.

Local participating businesses:  

• A&W Baseline Road
• Cena Catering
• Everyday Food Co.
• Fortis Alberta
• Joeys Seafood
• Rosies in the Park
• Roasti Coffee
• Sherwood Park Mall
• Sobeys Nottingham
• Soup and Sandwich Co.
• Strathcona Food Bank
• Troika Foods Ltd.
• TreeTime

What’s up with the cow?

Strathcona County wanted to recognize the participants of our Commercial Organics Waste pilot with a campaign called ‘Catch the Cow’.

A colourfully painted fibreglass cow statute was displayed at six locations near participating businesses for six weeks from throughout October and November 2024. If you saw the cow, it meant that one of the businesses nearby is doing their part to divert their organics waste.

In January 2025, the cow moved to the Community Centre at 401 Festival Lane.

Catch the Cow

Thank you to everyone who participated in our #CatchTheCowSHPK contest on instagram. All the winners have been contacted.