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City reminds residents that plastic bags are not accepted in curbside recycling

This also includes bags used to contain recycling

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed February 12, 2015 8:00 AM

Summary

The City would like to remind residents not to place their recycling out for collection in tied plastic bags. The City's recycling contractor can no longer throw plastic bags containing recyclables into the truck as plastic bags are no longer accepted in curbside recycling.

Plastic bags are not accepted as they cause problems during the sorting process, becoming tangled in machinery, resulting in less material being recycled. This change was mandated by the Province.

Link to Strategic Plan: Nanaimo's recycling program supports the City's ongoing commitment to sustainability; by recycling at the curb we take more responsibility for the protection of our environment.

Key Points

  • Recycling can be placed in a yellow bag or in a clearly marked rigid container.
  • If residents choose to use clear blue recycling bags please ensure they are untied.
  • Recycling will not be collected from opaque bags (like garbage bags) or from any bag that is tied at the top.

Quotes

"Some residents are having their recycling left at the curbside because they are placing it out in clear blue plastic bags tied at the top. Its really disappointing for the residents when they have made the effort to recycle. I'd like all residents to know that if they wish to place recycling in a clear plastic bag that they have to leave it untied. This is so the contractor can empty the bag in to the truck. "

Charlotte Davis
Manager of Sanitation and Recycling
City of Nanaimo

Quick Facts

  • Yellow bags are free and are available at City facilities including City Hall, Public Works, NAC, NIC, Beban Park and Oliver Woods Community Centre
  • Residents can recycle plastic bags (and other film plastics) at depots such as the Nanaimo Recycling Exchange on Kenworth Road and Return-It depots on Hayes Road and Victoria Road. Alternatively, many grocery stores take plastic bags.
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Contact:

Charlotte Davis
Manager Sanitation and Recycling
City of Nanaimo
250 758 5222

Print News Release

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