Winnipeg

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Waste Management

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 itโ€™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 cityโ€™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 cityโ€™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

Winnipegโ€™s waste management system is comprehensive and designed to encourage proper disposal and recycling. By following the cityโ€™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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