George the recycled robot has become quite famous throughout Canada and, along with his little dog, promotes recycling to all people near and far. George stands over seven feet tall and is often seen holding a sign that reads “Dot com”.
George was born to South Surrey resident Gerry Vliek, a former worker in the pulp and paper industry. After Gerry and his wife, Lainie, retired, he began to see a vast amount of paper fibre and other materials being thrown out and knew that something had to be done.
“Recycling was not invented yet,” Gerry said, with a chuckle.
Gerry jumped into action. He began to collect newspapers and other items people set out for collection. He found a way to use the paper and learned how to repair various electronics and other items. One thing led to another and soon Gerry became a one-man company. Gerry’s post-retirement “hobby” quickly turned into a full time job. The longer he worked at the programme, the more he began to notice the increase in the disposal of electronics and in particular, old computers.
“I’m not an expert, but I’m just fascinated by technology and how it’s changed over the years,” Gerry said.
The parts Gerry was unable to use for other purposes eventually found their way to rest with George, the robot-like statue. Gerry estimates that George is made up of more than 10,000 parts, most of which were retrieved from old computers.
Unfortunately, George is going to be put up for sale, mostly due to his size. Gerry said simply: “I can’t fit it through the door.”
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