Rankin Inlet Invests $800,000 in New Metal Shredder for Landfill

Rankin Inlet has made a significant investment in environmental management by purchasing a new metal shredder for the community’s landfill. The municipality allocated $800,000 for this crucial equipment, a move that is expected to enhance waste management practices and improve the community’s overall cleanliness.

Mayor Harry Towtongie emphasized the necessity of this purchase, stating that the local landfill is overwhelmed with metal waste. “We need to find a solution to manage this metal effectively and create space in the dump,” he explained. The shredder is anticipated to play a vital role in this process, allowing the municipality to clear out bulky metal debris and maintain a tidier landfill.

The new machine is already making waves in the community. Towtongie noted that it can shred an entire truck in just ten minutes, showcasing its efficiency. “It’s quite fascinating to see in action,” he remarked, adding that the municipality has already reclaimed several sections of the landfill, which are now nearly empty.

The acquisition of the metal shredder was facilitated by a fortunate combination of funding opportunities, according to Towtongie. Agnico Eagle Mines contributed to the effort by shipping the equipment at no cost. “We couldn’t pass up this opportunity,” said Towtongie. “We did our part, and they did theirs, and it all came together.”

The shredder was purchased in the winter of 2023, and the process of transporting it involved navigating customs and logistics, which Towtongie described as successful. “It took us about 20 minutes to drive it half a mile to its location. It’s slow, but it gets there,” he noted.

This year, the focus will be on processing scrap metal rather than tackling vehicles, as the municipality anticipates a substantial increase in metal waste due to Rankin Inlet’s rapid growth. Towtongie explained that the community receives approximately 100 new vehicles each summer, contributing to the metal accumulation.

The shredder’s output has potential beyond mere waste management. Towtongie highlighted that the shredded materials can be repurposed as landfill, which can be spread and covered with gravel to create a smooth surface. “This shredder could be a tremendous asset for the community,” he said, expressing optimism about its impact over the next four to five years.

As Rankin Inlet continues to evolve, the addition of the metal shredder represents a proactive step toward sustainable waste management and cleaner living conditions for residents. The local government remains committed to addressing the growing challenges associated with waste disposal while enhancing the community’s environment.