Attention, Waterloo region residents! A significant shift in garbage collection practices is underway, and it's time to get acquainted with the new system. Say goodbye to the old ways and embrace the changes that will make waste management more efficient and sustainable.
Starting today, you'll be using sleek new black and green bins for your garbage and organic waste. But here's the twist: your collection day might have changed due to a revised schedule. Get ready for a four-day collection cycle, running from Tuesday to Friday, designed to avoid the confusion of holiday Mondays. Collection will continue on most holidays, except for the major ones - Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
This week, your garbage and organics will be picked up as usual. However, there's a catch: recycling collection will be bi-weekly, while organic waste collection remains weekly. So, make sure you plan your waste disposal accordingly.
"We wanted everyone to start fresh and get accustomed to the new program," explained Olivia Kwok, the director of waste management for the region. "It's a fresh start, and we're excited for residents to embrace the changes."
But here's where it gets controversial: the region has adopted a cart-based collection system, where the truck does the heavy lifting. Previously, most collection was done manually, with crews handling the waste. The region cites challenges with manual collection, including staff recruitment and retention issues, limited labor availability, and health and safety risks.
Businesses are also part of this new waste collection program, receiving green bins for organic waste. "Restaurants and cafes will now divert their food waste into compost, reducing the amount of garbage sent to landfills," Kwok said.
As for your new black and green carts, you can store them anywhere on your property. Just ensure they're easily accessible on collection day, with about two feet of space around them. Your old bins can be reused for yard waste or storage, or they can be recycled through a drop-off program at the region's waste management sites or during designated drop-off events.
So, Waterloo region, are you ready for this waste management revolution? Embrace the changes, and let's make our community cleaner and greener. What are your thoughts on this new system? Feel free to share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!
