Blue Cart - Recyclable Materials

Ruben in Blue Cart

Let’s #RecycleRight! When it comes to recycling, we’re all in this together. By only putting accepted items into your recycling cart, you’re avoiding recycling contamination and ensuring more of your collected material is effectively managed and recycled. Read more about the Recycle BC recycling process by clicking here.

Beginning June 5, trained City staff will begin performing blue cart inspections to ensure only acceptable items are being placed in the blue carts.

Blue Cart Basics

  • Place accepted recyclables in the cart loosely, without bagging them or nesting them inside one another.
  • Rinse, squish and flatten items before placing them in the cart.
  • Remove tape, string, ribbon, or other contaminants.
  • Items must be under 60cm wide or tall.
  • Make sure that the lid is closed completely.
  • Take all beverage containers to a Return-It depot for a refund

 

Break Down Cardboard - Web

Remember to place your carts at the curb by 8 a.m. on your scheduled collection day.  Read more Cart Placement guidelines here.  Check your “Collection Calendar” to confirm your collection schedule.

Accepted Blue Cart Materials

  • Paper

  • Paper Packaging and Cardboard

  • Plastic Containers

  • Cartons and Paper Cups

  • Steel and Aluminum Containers

Accepted Recyclables

Not Accepted Blue Cart Materials - Recycle BC Depot

These items are NOT accepted for collection via your Blue Cart. In order for these items to be recycled they MUST be taken to a Recycle BC DEPOT.

Unaccepted Depot Materials

 

Not Accepted Blue Cart Materials

These items are NOT ACCEPTED for curbside collection and MUST be taken to an appropriate DROP OFF CENTRE to be disposed of properly. 

Not Accepted
Nanaimo Recycles App

 

Download the FREE Nanaimo Recycles App to learn What Goes Where and #RecycleRight!

 

What happens to the Blue Cart materials once they are collected?

Click here to find out!

Contact Us

Public Works Department 250-758-5222
public.worksinfo@nanaimo.ca

Zero Waste 250-756-5390
Monday to Friday | 8:00 - 4:30
Zero.Waste@nanaimo.ca

Last updated: June 20, 2023

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