Q: Why clear bags for garbage?
We have switched to clear bags to increase the amount of recyclables and organics and decrease what is ending up in the landfill. We know that there are still people who are not participating in our recycling and composting programs. The use of clear bags makes it simple to inspect bags for banned materials. We have been recycling since 1996 yet after 10 years have still not reached the provincial target of 60% diversion.
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Q: What do I do with all the black/green bags I have now?
You can still use them. The new system allows for ONE black/green bag per collection period to dispose of personal items. If you have any more than one bag of garbage, it must be placed in clear bags. If you only have one bag of garbage per collection now, you can continue using one black/green bag without any change, except for switching to blue bags for recycling.
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Q: Where can I purchase clear bags and can I get different sizes? Do clear bags cost more than black bags?
Local stores already have clear bags available and larger retail stores have a variety of sizes to suit your needs. Certain brands are more expensive than others. Remember the packages with larger quantities are more cost efficient. Additionally, if you reduce your amount of garbage to just one bag per collection period, you are still able to continue using black bags.
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Q: I currently use grocery bags or white kitchen catcher type bags for garbage. What do I do after April 1/07?
You may continue to use grocery bags and white bags if they are placed in your one black/green bag. If you are going to put them in your clear bag, they must first be emptied loose into the larger clear bag. The empty grocery/white bag would go in the garbage if soiled. There are also small clear bags (kitchen catcher size) available (20x22) and these can be thrown right into the larger clear bag.
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Q: Can I still use clear bags for recyclables?
No. Recyclables must be placed in blue bags. This will eliminate any confusion between garbage and recycling.
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Q: Why are we switching to blue bags for recyclables?
We are switching to blue bags for recycling to make it easier for everyone especially the haulers to differentiate between garbage and recyclables. It will also make it easier for everyone to place goods in the proper bags at home and at work and help to cut down on mistakes.
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Q: Why did we stop using blue bags before?
It was difficult to find a good market to recycle the blue bags; this is no longer a problem. With increased recycling in Canada and worldwide, there are new uses and markets for blue bags so there is no problem to market blue bags.
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Q: What happens if I don't follow the rules? Will clear bags be enforced?
Like all new programs, there will be a grace period to allow people to adjust to the changes. However, you are expected to use clear bags and clear bags will be enforced.
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Q: Does everyone have to use clear bags?
Yes. At home and at work, everyone is expected to use clear bags.
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Q: What if I need to use more than the ONE black bag for personal items?
For people with health issues who need more than ONE black/green bag special arrangements can be made. Contact Waste Check to arrange a visit to discuss your needs.
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Q: What about kitty litter, dog feces and diapers?
These can be placed right in your clear bags or you can also choose to place it in your ONE black/green bag for personal items.
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Q: Am I only able to put out one bag of garbage per collection?
No, you are only able to put out one black/green bag for personal waste anything above that would have to go in a clear bag. The limit on the number garbage bags per collection have not changed.
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Q: How do I dispose of dryer lint and fabric softener sheets?
Place in your clear garbage bag.
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Q: How do you dispose of wet/soiled paper products?
They can be placed in your green cart for composting.
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Q: How do you dispose of milk containers?
All milk cartons and jugs should be rinsed and go in recycle Blue Bag#2 with your containers and other recyclables.
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Q: How do you dispose of STOVE ASHES?
Due to fire hazard, stove ashes are NOT acceptable in the green cart. Ashes are best disposed of on your property. Ashes are also accepted in your regular garbage, but must be bagged separately with Ashes clearly marked on the outside.
Please remember that no matter which method of disposal you use, that you ensure ashes are cold prior to disposal.
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Q: How do you dispose of Styrofoam™ food containers/cups and packing materials?
They are all garbage and should be placed in your clear garbage bag.
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Q: How do you dispose of USED/LEFTOVER MOTOR OIL?
Motor oil can be returned to the place of purchase. If the retailer is unable to take it, they must provide a place within 5 kms. Empty oil containers can be recycled. Leave the cover on and place in recycle Blue Bag#2 with your containers and other recyclables.
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Q: How do you dispose of CAR BATTERIES?
Car batteries can be taken to your local ENVIRO-DEPOT™ or check with your local garage.
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Q: Where does leftover paint go?
Most household paint can be returned to your local ENVIRO-DEPOTTM for recycling. Call Waste Check for more information.
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Q: How do I dispose of empty paint cans?
Please ensure that the can is dry. Cover should be removed and placed in your clear garbage bag, but the can must be placed beside your bags at curbside.
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