Ontario is modernizing the blue box system to save municipalities money and divert more waste from landfills.
The enhanced blue box system will standardize what can be recycled throughout the province and expand service into Northern Ontario.
The new program will also save municipalities money by making the producers of products and packaging fully responsible for the cost and operation of the program.
“Our goal is to ensure our program remains convenient, affordable and right for communities. That’s why we are creating a stronger and more effective blue box service that will have some of the highest waste diversion targets in North America to promote greater innovations in recycling technologies and increased use of recycled materials,” said Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Jeff Yurek.
When the enhanced program is launched, blue box programs will start collecting single-use items such as paper and plastic cups, stir sticks, straws, and plastic cutlery and plates.
It's estimated the shift to making producers responsible for recycling costs will save municipalities in Ontario $156 million annually.
"The Ontario Waste Management Association (OWMA) supports the Ontario government’s commitment to strengthen the Blue Box program and set some of the highest waste diversion targets in North America. This program will better allow producers to effectively and accountability promote waste diversion, better manage the handling of 800,000 tonnes of products and packaging at the end-of-life stage and reduce the burden on municipal taxpayers. These changes are not only good for the environment, they are good for the economy, and will encourage investment," said OWMA Chief Executive Officer Mike Chopowick.
Many Canadian producers have spoken in support of the shift.
“Our company is committed to reducing packaging waste by focusing on innovative design, increased recovery and use of recycled materials. We look forward to working with municipalities across the province to build a more sustainable Ontario for years to come," said Keurig Dr. Pepper Canada President Stephane Glorieux.
The new system will come into effect throughout the province between 2023-2025. The first municipalities scheduled to adopt the new producer model include Kenora, London, Toronto, and the Town of Hawkesbury.