Ontario’s new privatized recycler’s move to stop picking up extra bags outside blue bins under review
Ontario residents may soon face changes to their curbside recycling pickup, as the province’s new private recycler, Circular Materials, begins implementing new rules regarding overflow recycling. The shift, which began on January 1st with Circular Materials taking over residential recycling from municipalities, has already drawn criticism and prompted a review by the Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority (RPRA).
New Rules and Regional Disparities
Starting this spring, some communities will no longer have overflow recycling – materials placed in blue bags beside bins – collected. Mississauga Councillor Alvin Tedjo stated that Circular Materials will not accept blue bags containing extra recyclables, or bags placed *inside* blue bins, requiring all materials to be loose within the bin itself. However, Councillor Tedjo also noted that the rules are currently “unclear and fluid,” creating confusion for residents.
The inconsistency in rules across municipalities is a major concern. Mississauga residents have historically been able to place excess recycling in blue bags, a practice that may end as soon as March or May. Toronto, however, appears set to continue accepting overflow recycling indefinitely, leading to what Councillor Dipika Damerla described as “two different levels of service.”
Official Response and Concerns
Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish expressed disappointment with the launch of the new program, stating that Circular Materials has had “a long lead time” and should have been better prepared. She emphasized the need for a dedicated contact number and sufficient staff to handle resident complaints.
Circular Materials CEO Allen Langdon explained that the changes apply to communities with “automated cart collection systems,” requiring all recycling to fit inside provided bins. He stated that specific instructions are being communicated directly to residents in affected areas.
Councillor Damerla stressed the importance of continuing to collect overflow recycling, arguing that making recycling more difficult could discourage participation and lead to increased waste in landfills or public spaces.
What Happens Next?
The RPRA is currently working with Circular Materials to ensure compliance with Ontario’s Blue Box regulations, which mandate the collection of all curbside recycling materials set out at a residence on a single day. It is possible that Circular Materials will adjust its policies based on the RPRA’s review and feedback from municipalities and residents. Further clarification on acceptable materials and collection schedules is also likely to be released. Depending on the outcome of the review, municipalities could continue to negotiate with Circular Materials to maintain existing levels of service, or residents may need to adjust their recycling habits to fit within the new guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Circular Materials?
Circular Materials is a national not-for-profit organization that took over residential recycling pickup from municipalities on January 1st to administer Ontario’s new producer-funded recycling program.
What is the RPRA’s role in this situation?
The Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority (RPRA) is the agency mandated to enforce Ontario’s recycling laws and is currently working with Circular Materials to ensure compliance with the Blue Box regulations.
Will all communities be affected by these changes?
According to Circular Materials CEO Allen Langdon, the changes regarding overflow recycling apply only to communities with “automated cart collection systems.”
How might these changes impact your household recycling routine?