18 Jun Plastic or paper bags now allowed for household organics in the green bin

This summer using the green bin will become cleaner and more convenient for Ottawa residents.

Plastic bags will be allowed as a bagging option for organics in the green bin beginning July 2, 2019. This is in addition to the current option of paper bags. Pet waste will also be accepted.

Why allow plastic bags?

When asked in a market research survey, sixty per cent of people who seldom use or do not use the green bin said they would participate if plastic bags were allowed. The use of plastic or compostable bags will address the inconvenience and “yuck” factors for residents who are hesitant to use the green bin.

These changes will also make the green bin even more convenient and easier to keep clean. Also, using the green bin takes advantage of weekly pickup, while garbage going to landfill is collected bi-weekly.

What are your green bin bag options?

• Paper bags to keep their green bin clean – including leaf and yard waste bags
• Newspaper lining in the bin and kitchen containers
• Cereal boxes and milk cartons to contain food waste

Diverting organic waste from the landfill is in the interest of residents from both an environmental and economic perspective. Using the green bin, along with other recycling efforts, is one of the easiest things we can do to help our environment.

City of Ottawa, June 13 2019