New Waste Guidelines

    Change is rarely embraced; the pending changes in how recycling will be handled in Abbotsford is a good example. Just when residents think they have become accustomed to a routine regarding their Waste disposal, another change is introduced.

     As a homeowner-resident, I'm not happy about the change either, however, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages - both financially and practically. This doesn't mean that the regiment cannot be refined and improved at some point. You can be assured that staff will carefully examine how residents might be served more effectively, if possible.

    Under the MMBC program, no municipality is able to collect film plastics (shopping bags, bread bags and other plastic wrap) through the curbside collection program. However, MMBC recycling depots do accept film plastics, and residents are encouraged to drop them off at a depot; some of these plastics may also be returned to a local retailer for recycling.

     Under the program, film plastics cannot be collected directly through curbside programs because the plastics mix with other recyclables during collection, are difficult to separate, and can get caught up in equipment during processing. This leads to less film plastics and other materials being recycled. When plastic bags and overwrap are returned to the depot, staff can ensure material is empty, clean and dry and only the correct types of film plastic are included. This ensures North American recycling remanufacturers’ specifications are met, so materials can be recycled locally.

     We know it’s a big change, but we are hoping that residents will collect their plastic bags and bring them to their local recycling depot or retailer.  There is no charge to drop off recycling and many residents already make trips to the depot to bring their refundable containers, batteries, light bulbs, paint and small appliances.

     The City is currently conducting a solid waste master plan, which will review current operations and consider options for changes and enhancements to the program and services we are currently delivering.

     If you have further questions about the new program, please feel free to call Nathan Koning, Senior Engineer, Solid Waste and Environmental Services, 604-557-1465 or nkoning@abbotsford.ca.