#ReuseRendezvous

[newsbites]

News from Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada, 21 July.

The Cedar Farmers Market in Nanaimo, British Columbia has seen an increase in visitors during the pandemic, with roughly 40% of attendees coming weekly or multiple times a month.

The market has attracted both locals and tourists, with local residents coming more frequently. The pandemic has also led to a change in mindset among shoppers, with a greater focus on the origin and quality of products. The market currently operates at Woodbank Elementary School with over 100 vendors, but there are plans to expand and operate year-round in a different location. A recent study led by a professor at the University of Northern B.C. named the Cedar Farmers Market as the top market in the province.

2. Reuse Rendezvous encourages residents to label their unwanted items as "FREE" and share them with others, promoting a more caring and sustainable community.

The event has gained popularity over the years, with approximately one-third of residents participating by either giving away or obtaining useful items.

While the event is intended to promote reuse, a significant amount of unusable waste is left behind when people fail to collect unclaimed items by the designated deadline.

3. The City of Parksville is implementing water restrictions to conserve water and protect critical infrastructure, such as sports fields and the Arboretum.

The reduced watering schedule and limited hours at the Parksville Community Park and water park are aimed at maintaining sanitary conditions while minimizing water usage.

The City is balancing the need to water certain areas, such as memorial trees and the off-leash dog park, with the goal of conserving water and meeting peak demand.

4. B.C.'s wildfire battle is shifting towards more populated southern areas due to hot and windy weather, while cooler temperatures and rain offer some relief in the north.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that homes have been lost to the out-of-control St. Mary's River fire near Cranbrook in southeast B.C.

Despite the arrival of additional firefighters and equipment, more rain is needed to help end the fire season and address the province's drought-level conditions.

5. High-quality air filters, such as HEPA filters, should be required in buildings, experts say, to improve indoor air quality and protect public health.

Poor indoor air quality in office buildings and schools can lead to health issues, absenteeism, decreased productivity, and strained relationships between employees and employers.

Current building codes and standards in Canada do not prioritize high-efficiency

6. The union and the federal mediator failed to reach an agreement, resulting in ongoing labour disputes at B.C. ports.

The brief strike by workers was deemed illegal due to insufficient notice, leading to their return to work.

The government's reluctance to enact back-to-work legislation has created uncertainty as the dispute continues.