ANALYSIS: Could Ontario’s recycling changes leave cities holding the bag?

Gee, the Ford government prioritizing corporate profits over environmental issues or things affecting everyday people (especially in cities)? /s

Earlier this month, the Ontario government proposed major changes to the blue-bin system of recycling collection that, critics say, would substantially weaken the province’s goals for diverting waste from landfills. The proposed changes, still open for public comment until July 4, would extend the timelines for Ontario to hit certain diversion targets from 2030 to 2035.

Under the proposed changes, the producer responsibility organizations (PROs) that are taking over blue-bin service will not have to assume responsibility for recyclable collection away from people’s homes (for example, in public parks). And some residences that don’t currently receive blue-bin recycling — including new apartment buildings and long-term care homes — can no longer expect to be brought into the system, at least not without having to pay additional fees. Homes with existing collection service will not be affected.

The government says the proposed changes are meant to keep a lid on costs for businesses.