June 06, 2005

In recognition of the valuable service of Resource Conservation Manitoba (RCM), the province has signed a memorandum of understanding providing $50,000 in funding to the organization over the next two years, Conservation Minister Stan Struthers said today.

“We look forward to RCM’s continued partnership with the province in promoting environmental protection and waste reduction,” said Struthers. “The organization performs a great service in the areas of environmental education and awareness.”

The agreement, which provides $25,000 this year, is an extension of an existing two-year agreement with funding provided through the Waste Reduction and Pollution Prevention (WRAPP) Fund of the Sustainable Development Innovations Fund.

Since 2000, RCM has developed and delivered programming and promotion activities for schools, businesses and communities throughout the province to encourage Manitobans to compost, reduce waste and adopt environmentally-friendly forms of transportation.

“Public demand for environmental information on composting, green transportation and resource conservation continues to increase. RCM’s Compost Action Line received over 400 calls this past month alone, signaling a tremendous upsurge in interest in this area,” said Randall McQuaker, executive director of RCM.

“The environmental information services provided by RCM are recognized for their high quality and professionalism and are an important component of the province’s waste-reduction and pollution-prevention program,” said Struthers.

- 30 -