Changes to the Blue Box Recycling Program

Starting January 1, 2026, Ontario will complete its transition to an enhanced recycling system where producers – those organizations that supply packaging and paper materials to residents – are 100% responsible for funding and managing the recycling program.

This new system is managed by Circular Materials, the administrator of the common collection system and a not-for profit organization that is committed to building efficient and effective recycling systems.

As part of this new recycling system, residents will be able to recycle more than ever before at the curb. Ontarians will also be able to recycle the same materials no matter where they are across the province – supporting consistency and making the program more accessible.

Learn more about Ontario’s upcoming recycling system.

Historically, Ontario’s blue box recycling programs were managed by communities who were responsible for paying approximately half of the costs, with producers responsible for the other half. Under the Blue Box Regulation, Ontario is introducing a new model where producers are 100% responsible for operating and funding the program.

As of January 2026, you will be able recycle more than ever before at the curb, including hot and cold beverage cups, frozen juice containers, ice cream tubs, black plastic containers, deodorant, toothpaste tubes and more. 

Circular Materials is the administrator of Ontario’s common collection system, and responsible for operating the new recycling system for blue box materials in 2026. This includes enabling innovation, operational efficiencies, increased standard levels and access to materials.

Circular Materials is committed to increasing recycling rates across Ontario and ensuring more materials are looped into the circular economy, benefiting both people and the environment.

Circular Materials, Ryse Solutions, Landbell Canada and EnvironFocus Incorporated are the producer responsibility organizations (PROs) that are operating Ontario’s new common collection system.

EPR is a framework in which producers – the businesses that supply paper and packaging to residents – are responsible for managing the end-of-life management of these materials. EPR enables innovation, operational efficiencies, increased standard levels, and access to materials.

Recycling programs founded on the principles of EPR improve recycling rates and encourage the more efficient use of materials. Learn more here.

EPR is recognized as one of the most effective mechanisms to improve recycling rates and advance a circular economy where materials are collected, recycled, and returned to producers for use as recycled content in new products and packaging.

Yes, recycling will continue to be picked up on the same day and time as your garbage. Please continue to have your garbage and recycling placed curbside by 7 a.m. on collection day to ensure it is ready for collection. Should there be any changes to your collection day in the future, you will be made aware in advance.

Collection can occur at different times each week due to several factors, but if your garbage or recycling has not been picked up by 6 p.m., please report a missed collection to HGC or Emterra (recycling only).

Any financial impacts will be evaluated over time. The Township will still be responsible for solid waste collection and there are many factors that impact this cost. We do not expect any immediate reduction in the cost of curbside collection.

Industrial, commercial and institutional properties are not included in Circular Materials’ collection program. The Township will reach out directly to these properties with solutions.