Inuvik (May 14/04) - With "recycling lady" Barb Armstrong elected to the helm of the Inuvik Recycling Society, the organization is poised to enter the next phase of making recycling a sustainable venture in the region.

"This is a big year with Bill 22 legislation (Waste Recovery and Reduction Act) moving through," said Armstrong following her election as president to the society's 2004 board.

Armstrong says Inuvik is one of three NWT communities targeted for a processing centre that will be set to handle incoming recyclables from other regional communities.

She anticipates that such a facility would be able to crush and bail cans and plastic, making the material more transportation-friendly before it is shipped south.

Armstrong, along with other board members, agreed that the key to pushing the society's Earth-friendly agenda is more awareness through education.

Armstrong also couldn't resist taking a shot at the town for failing to consult the society regarding the purchase of a new garbage truck and dumpsters.

"The truck is not equipped with recyclable material compartments nor are the dumpsters," she said.

The $400,000 waste removal deal will include a new truck and 40 bins that represent a test system. Mayor Peter Clarkson says if the system works out, converting the entire town to new dumpsters will cost upwards of an additional $1.5 million.

"The town continues to support the clear-bag initiative proposed to us by the society," he said.

Those currently wishing to recycle need only sort their cans and plastic, and place them in clear bags where they can be sorted once reaching the dump.