Toronto

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Waste Management

Guidance on garbage collection, recycling programs, and environmental initiatives in Toronto.

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Comprehensive Guide to Waste Management in Toronto, Canada

Toronto has a well-structured waste management system designed to promote sustainability and reduce landfill waste. The city operates a three-stream waste collection system: garbage, recycling, and organics (compost). Residents are required to sort their waste into the appropriate categories to ensure proper disposal and recycling. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate Toronto’s waste management system.

1. Waste Collection Categories

A. Garbage (Black Bin)

  • What Goes In: Non-recyclable and non-compostable items such as:
    • Plastic bags (if not recyclable in your area)
    • Broken ceramics or glass (wrapped for safety)
    • Non-recyclable packaging (e.g., chip bags, candy wrappers)
    • Diapers and sanitary products
    • Pet waste (if not compostable)
  • What Does NOT Go In: Hazardous waste, electronics, yard waste, or items that belong in recycling or organics bins.

B. Recycling (Blue Bin)

  • What Goes In: Clean and dry recyclable materials, including:
    • Paper products (newspapers, magazines, cardboard, etc.)
    • Glass bottles and jars
    • Metal cans and foil
    • Plastic containers (check for recycling symbols #1-7)
  • What Does NOT Go In: Food-soiled items, black plastic, Styrofoam, or items with mixed materials (e.g., coffee cups with plastic linings).

C. Organics (Green Bin)

  • What Goes In: Compostable materials, such as:
    • Food scraps (vegetables, fruits, meat, bones, etc.)
    • Coffee grounds and tea bags
    • Paper towels, napkins, and tissues
    • Pet waste (in approved compostable bags)
  • What Does NOT Go In: Plastic bags, diapers, or non-compostable materials.

D. Yard Waste

  • Yard waste (e.g., leaves, grass clippings, branches) is collected separately during specific times of the year (spring to fall). It must be placed in kraft paper bags or labeled bins.

2. Costs and Fees

Toronto residents pay for waste collection through a Solid Waste Management Fee, which is included in their utility bill. The fee is based on the size of the garbage bin you select:

  • Small Bin: Lowest fee (encourages waste reduction)
  • Medium Bin: Moderate fee
  • Large Bin: Higher fee
  • Extra-Large Bin: Highest fee

Recycling and organics collection are included in the fee, so there is no additional cost for these services. Residents are encouraged to reduce garbage bin size to save money and promote sustainability.

3. Procedures for Sorting and Disposal

A. Sorting

  • Use the Waste Wizard Tool: The City of Toronto provides an online tool called the "Waste Wizard" to help residents determine how to dispose of specific items. Simply type in the item, and the tool will tell you which bin it belongs in.

B. Collection Schedule

  • Waste collection occurs weekly or bi-weekly, depending on your location and the type of waste.
  • Check your collection schedule online or through the TOwaste App, which provides reminders and updates.

C. Preparation

  • Ensure all waste is properly sorted and placed in the correct bins.
  • Place bins at the curb by 7:00 AM on collection day, but no earlier than 8:00 PM the night before.
  • Ensure bins are spaced at least 0.5 meters apart and away from obstacles like parked cars or trees.

4. Special Disposal Services

A. Drop-Off Depots

Toronto operates several Drop-Off Depots where residents can dispose of items that cannot go in regular bins, such as:

  • Hazardous waste (paint, batteries, chemicals)
  • Electronics (TVs, computers, phones)
  • Large items (furniture, appliances)
  • Yard waste (outside of collection season)

Key Drop-Off Depots:

  1. Ingram Transfer Station: 50 Ingram Drive
  2. Scarborough Transfer Station: 1 Transfer Place
  3. Disco Transfer Station: 120 Disco Road
  4. Victoria Park Transfer Station: 3350 Victoria Park Avenue

Hours of Operation: Vary by location; check the city’s website for details.

B. Community Environment Days

  • These are annual events held in various neighborhoods where residents can drop off hazardous waste, electronics, and other special items for free.
  • Residents can also pick up free compost made from the city’s organic waste program.

C. Bulky Item Collection

  • Large items like furniture and appliances can be scheduled for curbside pickup. This service is free but must be arranged in advance by calling 311 or using the city’s online service.

5. Important Local Considerations

A. Waste Reduction Tips

  • Toronto encourages residents to reduce waste by:
    • Using reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
    • Composting food scraps.
    • Donating usable items to charities or second-hand stores.

B. Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Improper sorting or placing prohibited items in bins can result in fines or rejected collection. Ensure you follow the guidelines to avoid issues.

C. Multi-Residential Buildings

  • If you live in an apartment or condo, waste collection may differ. Check with your property manager for specific instructions.

D. Seasonal Considerations

  • During the holiday season, extra waste (e.g., wrapping paper, boxes) may require additional sorting. Christmas trees are collected separately in January.

6. Resources and Contacts

  • 311 Toronto: For questions about waste collection, schedules, or special services.
  • TOwaste App: Download for collection reminders, sorting tips, and depot locations.
  • City of Toronto Waste Management Website: toronto.ca/waste

By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage your waste in Toronto while contributing to the city’s sustainability goals. Proper sorting and disposal not only help the environment but also ensure a cleaner and healthier community for everyone.