What if I don't want to participate?
If you choose not to participate, your residual waste (black bag garbage) will still be collected every other week. We encourage everyone to participate in the 3-stream collection program.
Do I have to use a bag to line the Green Bin?
Yes, it is mandatory that all SSO materials be contained within a bag. The Town suggests lining your indoor small container or larger Green Bin with a Certified Compostable plastic bag or kraft paper bag. Source Seperated Organics should be contained in a bag to protect the health and safety of the waste collector.
Can I put my leaves and yard material in the Green Bin?
No. If you receive leaf and yard material curbside collection, please continue to use rigid open-top containers (garbage cans, bushel baskets) or kraft paper bags for your yard material. The composting process is different for yard material. Please remember that plastic bags can not be used for leaf and yard material. I already compost and don't want to use my Green Bin. May I do this?
We encourage you to continue backyard composting. However, there are additional items that you can't backyard compost that are accepted in the curbside organics program such as animal waste, meat, fish and diapers.
Are the Green Bins designed to be resistant to dogs, raccoons etc?
Yes, the bins are designed to be rodent-proof. The Green Bin has a durable locking lid. However, it is not recommended to leave Green Bins outside where animals have access for prolonged periods of time.
Where is the organic material going?
Organic material is being processed at licensed composting facilities under contract to the Region of York. These facilities are designed to separate out the plastic bags from the composting process and will turn the organic material into clean, rich soil.
What will the finished compost be used for?
The compost will be sold to end market users where it will be used for various purposes including farming and landscaping.