Winnipeg

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Waste Management

Overview of garbage, recycling, and compost services in Winnipeg, including schedules and rules.

Sections

1. Categories of Waste in Winnipeg

Winnipeg's waste management system is divided into three main categories:

a. Garbage (Non-Recyclable Waste)

  • Definition: Items that cannot be recycled or composted, such as plastic bags, Styrofoam, and certain types of packaging.
  • Collection: Garbage is collected bi-weekly in black carts provided by the city.
  • Disposal: Garbage is sent to the Brady Road Resource Management Facility (landfill).

b. Recycling

  • Definition: Materials that can be processed and reused, such as paper, cardboard, aluminum cans, glass bottles, and certain plastics.
  • Collection: Recycling is collected bi-weekly in blue carts provided by the city, on the same day as garbage collection.
  • Processing: Recyclables are sent to the Winnipeg Recycling Facility for sorting and processing.
  • Accepted Items: Includes clean paper, cardboard, plastic containers (with recycling symbols #1-7), aluminum, and glass bottles.
  • Non-Accepted Items: Plastic bags, Styrofoam, and greasy or soiled materials.

c. Organic Waste (Yard Waste)

  • Definition: Yard waste such as grass clippings, leaves, and small branches.
  • Collection: Yard waste is collected seasonally (spring to fall) in reusable containers, paper yard waste bags, or tied bundles.
  • Processing: Organic waste is composted at the Brady Road Resource Management Facility.
  • Note: Winnipeg does not currently have a citywide food waste composting program, but residents are encouraged to compost at home.

d. Hazardous Waste

  • Definition: Items such as batteries, paint, chemicals, and electronics that require special handling.
  • Drop-Off: Hazardous waste can be taken to 4R Winnipeg Depots (see below for details).

2. Costs of Waste Disposal for Residents

  • Garbage and Recycling Collection: The cost of waste collection is included in property taxes for homeowners. There is no additional fee for regular garbage and recycling collection.
  • Additional Garbage Bags: If residents have more garbage than fits in their black cart, they can purchase "garbage tags" for $2.50 per bag. These tags must be attached to extra garbage bags for collection.
  • 4R Winnipeg Depots: Drop-off of recyclables, yard waste, and certain hazardous materials is free for residents.
  • Landfill Fees: For large loads or items taken directly to the Brady Road Resource Management Facility, fees may apply. For example:
    • Residential waste: $15 for loads under 500 kg.
    • Tires, appliances, and other special items may have additional fees.

3. Procedures for Waste Collection

  • Cart Placement: Residents must place their garbage and recycling carts at the curb or back lane by 7:00 AM on collection day. Carts should be at least one meter apart and away from obstacles like fences or parked cars.
  • Collection Schedules: Waste collection occurs bi-weekly. Residents can check their specific collection day using the City of Winnipeg's online Collection Day Calendar or the Winnipeg 311 app.
  • Missed Collection: If waste is not collected, residents can report it to 311 for assistance.

4. Drop-Off Sites and Special Programs

Winnipeg has several facilities and programs to encourage waste reduction and proper disposal:

a. 4R Winnipeg Depots

These depots are designed for residents to drop off items that do not belong in regular garbage or recycling carts. Accepted items include:

  • Recyclables (e.g., cardboard, glass, plastics)
  • Yard waste
  • Household hazardous waste (e.g., paint, batteries, chemicals)
  • Electronics (e.g., TVs, computers)
  • Large items (e.g., furniture, mattresses)

Locations:

  1. Brady 4R Winnipeg Depot (1777 Brady Road)
  2. Pacific 4R Winnipeg Depot (1120 Pacific Avenue)
  3. Panet 4R Winnipeg Depot (429 Panet Road)

Hours: Hours vary by season, so it’s best to check the City of Winnipeg website for up-to-date information.

b. Leaf and Yard Waste Collection

  • Seasonal curbside collection is available for yard waste. Residents must use paper yard waste bags or reusable containers (no plastic bags).
  • Collection schedules are available online.

c. Large Item Pickup

  • The city offers a large item collection service for items like furniture and appliances. Residents must schedule a pickup through 311 or the city’s website.
  • Fees may apply for certain items, such as appliances containing Freon.

d. Community Recycling Initiatives

  • Composting: While there is no citywide food waste collection, Winnipeg encourages residents to compost at home. Compost bins are available for purchase at a subsidized rate through the city.
  • Recycling Education: The city runs educational programs to promote recycling and waste reduction.

5. Local Regulations and Considerations

  • Cart Size Options: Residents can request a smaller or larger garbage or recycling cart if their needs differ. A fee may apply for cart exchanges.
  • Illegal Dumping: Dumping waste in unauthorized areas is prohibited and subject to fines.
  • Sorting Requirements: Residents are required to sort waste properly. Contaminated recycling (e.g., items with food residue) may not be collected.
  • Bear Smart Practices: In areas near wildlife, residents are advised to secure waste to avoid attracting animals.

6. Special Programs for Waste Reduction

Winnipeg has several initiatives aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainability:

  • Waste Reduction Week: An annual event to raise awareness about waste reduction and recycling.
  • Clothing and Textile Recycling: Some depots and community organizations accept textiles for recycling or reuse.
  • Electronics Recycling: The city partners with organizations like EPRA Manitoba to recycle electronics responsibly.
  • Household Hazardous Waste Days: Special events are held to collect hazardous materials from residents.

7. Tips for Residents

  • Download the Winnipeg 311 App: This app provides collection schedules, reminders, and a tool to report missed pickups or illegal dumping.
  • Use the "What Goes Where" Tool: Available on the city’s website, this tool helps residents determine how to dispose of specific items.
  • Participate in Community Cleanups: Many neighborhoods organize cleanups to reduce litter and promote community pride.

Conclusion

Winnipeg’s waste management system is comprehensive and designed to encourage proper disposal and recycling. By following the city’s guidelines and taking advantage of programs like the 4R Winnipeg Depots and seasonal yard waste collection, residents can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable community. For more information, visit the City of Winnipeg Waste and Recycling Services website.

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