It may seem unsophisticated to the point of uselessness but Coquitlam's green can program will help reduce conflicts with bears and other animals if it is used properly, the city's Bear Aware co-ordinator says.
Although the program was initiated to reduce the amount of trash going to the dump, it's also effective at keeping bears away because green cans are picked up earlier than regular garbage bins, resulting in less food waste being available to attract those hungry bruins.
Many might disdain the green can program because residents have to provide their own bear-resistant bins or repurpose an old garbage can; and, of course, separating messy food waste is a hassle. It's not mandatory and there are no garbage police making sure people comply.
But if separating food and placing it in a green can for early pick-up is all it takes to keep bears away, then maybe it makes sense.
What do you think?Are you making more of an effort this year to keep your garbage away from bears? Vote in our online poll (scroll down, question is on the left side).
