The term “binner” refers to someone who collects bottles, cans and other objects of value from garbage bins. It is a colloquial term that originated in Vancouver and represents a large community of people, primarily from Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.
Unfortunately, the act of rummaging through back alley bins commonly casts binners in a negative light and they are often overlooked as productive members of society. However former binner and local activist Ken Lyotier, who has been speaking up for the rights of binners for the past 30 years, has made it his mission to disprove this stereotype. His newest project looks to involve the binner community in Vancouvers waste management policy through the Binners’ Project.
Although in its infancy, the Binners’ Project has some big goals. Lyotier hopes to collect recommendations from the community that knows Vancouver’s garbage best and use their insight to improve waste policy. I attended a Binners’ Project meeting where I spoke with local binners and Lyotier to better understand the project’s objective and discuss their ideas for the future. Read my article for The Thunderbird to learn more.
Natalie Walters 