Khalsa Diwan Society and Vancity Credit Union help to make 2016 Parade the greenest in Vancouver’s history.

VANCOUVER – The Khalsa Diwan Society (Ross Street) is working together with Vancity Credit Union to make this year’s Vaisakhi Parade the Greenest Vaisakhi in Vancouver history. Vancouver-based Green Chair Recycling has been selected to provide over 30 recycling stations along the parade route between Main Street and Fraser Street, as well as two recycling headquarters and washing stations in Punjabi Market to more effectively divert waste from landfill from the parade, which draws approximately 100,000 people annually.

The annual Vaisakhi Parade brings people from across Vancouver together to celebrate the birth of the Khalsa and the harvest season. It traditionally marks the beginning of the new year in the Sikh calendar and celebrates the start of the harvest season.

For 2016, the Khalsa Diwan Society’s goal is to divert up to 90% 2000 pounds of the waste generated from the parade from landfills, by providing compost and recycling stations for vendors and attendees as well as information sessions to support vendors and neighbourhood families. Most of the parade’s waste is generated by the free food and giveaways for those along the parade route which is easily recyclable and compostable. The City of Vancouver’s extensive network of recycling stations as well as those provided by Green Chair Recycling will ensure easily accessible and available recycling options for everyone.

“Recycling waste from events is a great way to build environmentally sustainable communities.  We want to support people coming together and leave behind great memories from the event – not great piles of trash,” said William Azaroff, vice-president of community investment.

“Since receiving Civic Status in 2013, the Vaisakhi Parade has been a great partner and asset to the City that enhances our community spirit,” said Mayor Gregor Robertson. “I congratulate the Khalsa Diwan Society for taking initiative in setting a model to become the greenest Vaisakhi parade ever at the same time Vancouver works toward becoming the greenest city in the world.”