Ontario is considering changes to its blue box recycling program following problems with its rollout. The proposed changes aim to improve service, control rising costs and make the system more transparent.
The provincial government announced Friday, Oct. 23, that it will consult the public and recycling industry before making changes.
Ontario shifted recycling costs and responsibilities from municipalities to companies that produce packaging and other recyclable materials. In Peel Region, which includes Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon, the change took effect Jan. 1, 2026. Circular Materials now manages recycling collection, while the region continues to handle garbage, organics and yard waste.
The province is considering rules for recycling bin sizes that would account for residents’ accessibility needs. It also wants clearer reporting of program costs and fees paid by producers.
Other proposals include changing who oversees the recycling system and finding better ways to collect flexible plastics, which can be difficult to recycle.
Ontario says recycling costs have been rising faster than expected. The proposed changes are intended to control costs while maintaining services for residents.
The government has not finalized the changes. It will gather feedback from residents and industry representatives before deciding how to proceed.
Ontario’s blue box program serves more than five million households across the province.
