Ontario's new privatized recycler's move to stop collecting extra bags outside blue bins sparks controversy
The new private recycler in Ontario, Circular Materials, is facing scrutiny after announcing it will no longer collect overflow recycling in blue bags beside bins in some communities starting this spring. This decision has caused a stir among residents, especially in Peel Region, who are now grappling with unclear recycling rules.
The Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority (RPRA), responsible for enforcing the province's recycling laws, is working with Circular Materials to ensure compliance with the Blue Box regulations. These regulations mandate that recyclers collect all blue box material set out for curbside collection at the residence in a single day. RPRA's Compliance Team is actively engaged with Circular Materials to understand their operational plans and ensure they meet the Blue Box Regulation requirements.
However, the new rules have left residents confused and frustrated. Mississauga Councillor Alvin Tedjo highlights the lack of clarity on what is recyclable, when bins will be picked up, and whether bags can still be collected. The inconsistency between municipalities' rules has been a significant challenge, as residents are accustomed to unlimited recycling and placing extra materials in blue bags when bins are full.
Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish expressed disappointment with Circular Materials' launch, emphasizing the need for a contact number and sufficient staff to handle complaints. Councillor Dipika Damerla received mixed information from the recycling company, with initial statements suggesting no overflow bag collection, followed by extensions to March 1 and now May 31. Damerla advocates for permanent overflow bag collection and consistent rules across municipalities, noting that Toronto residents will continue to receive the deluxe service.
Circular Materials CEO Allen Langdon clarified that some communities will have automated cart collection systems, requiring all recycling to be placed inside the provided bins. This means no extra materials outside the bin, a rule that only applies to certain communities in Ontario. Further details and instructions are communicated directly to residents in these areas.
