Why did we make the change from weekly to every other week garbage and leaf & yard trimmings collection

We estimate that approximately 45% of residential garbage going to the landfill could have gone in the Blue Box, Green Cart or other divertible stream. These recyclable or compostable materials are valuable resources, and should not be buried in the landfill, even though our landfill capacity is over 25 years. Landfill space remaining should be reserved for non-recyclable or non-compostable materials.

The cost of a new landfill site is currently estimated at $40 to $50 million (to replace the Sudbury Landfill) and could be up to $100 million to replace the current three landfill sites. Increase that cost to $200-$300 million if waste to energy is selected rather than landfilling. This change is anticipated to result in a maximization of participation in diversion programs, especially the Green Cart organics program.

The  change  to  every  other  week  garbage  and  leaf  &  yard  trimming collection under the new collection contract will result in an annual cost savings of approximately $954,000. Part of these savings will be used to provide additional or enhanced support programs.  Council will reallocate the remaining savings.