Raven Recycling gets $320,000 from Yukon government

Raven Recycling of Whitehorse is receiving a $320,000 cash infusion over two years from the Yukon government, so that the non-profit organization can cope with a loss in revenue caused by the slumping economy.

Environment Minister Elaine Taylor announced the new funding Thursday. The money will go towards boosting people's participation in recycling and environmental awareness, she said.

Raven Recycling officials say the money will help address revenue losses the group experienced due to a downturn in commodity prices.

"We would not be able to continue to offer recycling services in the Yukon if it weren't for this support. So it's crucial for us and for the entire Yukon population," board member Jacqueline Bedard told reporters in Whitehorse on Thursday.

Raven Recycling is projecting total revenues this year of $260,000, compared to the $625,000 it generated two years ago.

Raven Recycling processed 2,840 tonnes of material last year, including 155 tonnes of scrap metal and 1,741 tonnes of recyclables. It also provided cash refunds for 922 tonnes of refundable recyclables.

The territorial government has earmarked a total $1.6 million for recycling activities in the 2009-10 fiscal year.