Brown Plastic Recycling: Toronto's Guide To Going Green

The City of Toronto has a comprehensive recycling program, but there are still many commonly used plastics that are not recyclable. Black plastic, for example, is not accepted as part of the city's recycling program because there is no stable market for the volume of black plastic generated in Toronto, and it cannot be sorted mechanically at the recycling facility due to the optical sorting technology being unable to recognize it. Additionally, coffee cups, Styrofoam, and plastic-lined paper are not recyclable in Toronto. So, is brown plastic recyclable in Toronto?

Black plastic is not recyclable in Toronto

The issue of black plastic not being recyclable is not unique to Toronto, but is a problem across Canada. Black plastic does not reflect light, so it cannot be sorted by scanners at recycling centres. This means that black plastic often ends up contaminating other recyclables, reducing the quality and value of the recycled material.

The City of Toronto has reported a 25% increase in contamination rates due to black plastic being placed in recycling bins. This has resulted in significant costs for processing fees and a decrease in revenue from the sale of recyclables. The small market for black plastic also makes it costly to sort, with little to no reward.

While some people may be confused by the small recycling symbol found on some black plastic items, it is important to dispose of all black plastic in the garbage rather than the recycling bin. The City of Toronto is working on a solution to the black plastic problem, but in the meantime, residents should follow the proper disposal guidelines to avoid contamination and increased costs for the city.

Some private recycling companies in Ontario, such as the one used by Sweet Potato Kitchen, do process black plastic. However, this is not a common or widely available option, and most black plastic waste must currently be sent to landfills.

Clear and coloured plastic containers are recyclable

In Toronto, clear and coloured plastic containers, tubs, and jugs are recyclable. However, black plastic is not accepted as part of the city's recycling program. This includes black plastic containers, lids, and garbage bags. The reason for this is twofold: there is no stable market for the volume of black plastic generated in Toronto, and black plastic cannot be sorted mechanically at the recycling facility because the optical sorting technology cannot recognize it.

Other non-recyclable items in Toronto include Styrofoam, which is hard to recycle and often not accepted as part of curbside waste recycling programs. Coffee cups, especially those made of Styrofoam, are also generally not recyclable and should be disposed of in the garbage. To reduce waste, it is recommended to use a reusable coffee cup instead.

Flexible multi-layered packaging, such as stand-up pouches, and plastic-lined paper, such as instant oatmeal packs, also belong in the garbage. If you are unsure whether an item can be recycled, you can check Toronto's Waste Wizard tool for guidance.

It is important to note that not all items with a recycling symbol are accepted in Toronto's Blue Bin recycling program. The program only accepts specific types of plastics, and even then, the plastic items must be empty and clean to be recycled.

Plastic bags can be recycled in Toronto

Secondly, not all plastic bags are created equal when it comes to recycling in Toronto. Black plastic, for instance, is not accepted in the city's recycling program. This includes black garbage bags and take-out containers. Black plastic cannot be sorted mechanically at the recycling facility because the optical sorting technology cannot recognize it. Compostable and biodegradable plastics are also not recyclable in Toronto as they are made of materials that are meant to break down rather than be made into something new.

It's also worth noting that the rules for recycling plastic bags can vary by municipality, so it's always a good idea to check with your local guidelines. For example, while Toronto accepts plastic bags in the blue bin, Markham requires residents to take them to a drop-off depot, and the York region does not accept them at all.

Finally, while it is possible to recycle plastic bags, the best way to reduce waste is to eliminate single-use plastic bags altogether. Reusable bags are a more environmentally friendly option that generates zero waste and can carry more weight than single-use plastic bags.

Styrofoam is recyclable but not as part of curbside waste

Toronto has a comprehensive recycling program, but some items cannot be recycled as part of curbside waste. Styrofoam, for example, is recyclable but must be taken to a drop-off depot.

The City of Toronto provides detailed guidelines on what can and cannot be recycled through its Blue Bin program. While the program accepts a wide range of materials, including paper, cardboard, plastic, and metal, there are specific items that are not suitable for Blue Bins.

Styrofoam, officially known as polystyrene, is one such material that requires special consideration. Due to its unique chemical composition, Styrofoam cannot be recycled through the Blue Bin program. However, it is important to note that Styrofoam can be recycled through other means.

In Toronto, clean Styrofoam takeout containers and meat trays are accepted at specific drop-off locations. Residents can recycle these items at depots, ensuring they are free from food residue and other contaminants. It is crucial to separate Styrofoam from other waste streams to facilitate effective recycling.

Additionally, some private companies offer Styrofoam recycling services. These companies have the necessary technology and expertise to process Styrofoam waste efficiently. They may offer collection services or accept drop-offs, providing a convenient option for individuals and businesses looking to recycle Styrofoam responsibly.

While Styrofoam is recyclable, it is essential to follow the proper disposal guidelines provided by the City of Toronto. By separating Styrofoam from other recyclables and utilizing designated drop-off locations or private recycling services, individuals can play a vital role in reducing landfill waste and promoting environmental sustainability.

Coffee cups are not recyclable

Toronto has a robust recycling program, but not all items can be recycled in the city. Coffee cups, for instance, are not recyclable and do not belong in the blue bin. This is because coffee cups are coated with a thin layer of plastic to prevent leaks. While this plastic coating keeps your coffee warm and your hands dry, it makes the cup unrecyclable.

The presence of plastic lining means that coffee cups cannot be recycled with other paper products. When paper is recycled, it is mixed with water to create a slurry, which is then processed into new paper products. However, paper products with plastic lining, like coffee cups, cannot be broken down in water. As a result, they must be sorted out and sent to landfills, where they contribute to waste and environmental pollution.

In Toronto, it is important to separate paper products with plastic lining from other recyclables. This includes not only coffee cups but also items like paper takeout containers and instant oatmeal packs. These items should be placed in the garbage rather than the blue bin. While it may seem wasteful to throw away items that appear to be made of paper, the recycling facilities in Toronto are not equipped to handle plastic-lined paper products.

It is worth noting that some paper products with plastic coatings, like frozen food boxes, are also non-recyclable. These boxes are coated with plastic to prevent freezer burn, but this coating makes them unsuitable for recycling. Instead, they should be placed in the garbage along with coffee cups and other plastic-lined paper items. By properly disposing of these items, you can help reduce the contamination of recyclables and ensure that recyclable materials are not ruined by non-recyclable contaminants.

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