BMEx connects construction, manufacturing, and design professionals through resource sharing to reduce landfill waste. Photo credit: Lighthouse
VICTORIA – A new Building Material Exchange (BMEx) program has been launched for Vancouver Island that is aimed at reducing waste management costs and the amount of construction materials ending up in landfills.
Light House is behind the program, which is funded by the Regional District of Nanaimo, Capital Regional District and Cowichan Valley Regional District. Materials accepted through the BMEx program include concrete, aggregates, asphalt, metal, wood, glass, carpet, doors, flooring, drywall and fixtures.
“BMEx is for any business in South or Central Vancouver Island that has a surplus of building or design-related materials they don’t need,” says Gil Yaron, Managing Director, Circular Innovation, Light House. “Their perfect match is out there – a local business or organization that is seeking more affordable materials.
“Through BMEx, we’re making these connections possible while reducing landfill costs and creating an opportunity for paired businesses to get their hands on high-quality, raw materials for a fraction of virgin material costs. We are excited for the connections that will be made and the positive environmental impact we expect BMEx will have.”
South and Central Vancouver Island businesses that are interested in learning more about BMEx or who would like to get involved, are invited to attend and/or actively participate in BMEx Challenge events in Victoria and Nanaimo this November. Both BMEx Challenge events are free to attend and are presented by Coast Capital Savings.
There will be an opportunity for eight businesses to pitch to an audience of local community members, investors, and innovators about a challenge they are facing as incorporating circular economic principles into their operations or products. Participating businesses must apply to pitch their idea and will receive expert pitch coaching from Spring, a global incubator, accelerator, and advisory. At the Challenge events, the audience will offer potential solutions and networking opportunities will follow.
The BMEx Challenge Nanaimo is November 5 at White Sails Brewing at 125 Comox Road from 4-6 p.m. The BMEx Challenge Victoria is November 6 at KWENCH at 2031 Store Street from 6-8 p.m.
Business Examiner Staff
