Should the City adopt a clear bag program?
What is a clear bag program?
A clear bag program for garbage collection is a waste management approach where residents are required to use transparent or translucent bags to dispose of their garbage. Many municipalities in Ontario are moving to clear bag programs for garbage collection (e.g. City of Markham). The goal of this program is to increase diversion by making it easier for waste collectors to identify recyclable and compostable materials that are being put out as garbage (and potentially refuse collection). It also aims to raise public awareness about responsible residential waste disposal.
Benefits and trade-offs of a clear bag program
| BENEFITS | TRADE-OFFS |
Increased recycling and sorting: A clear bag program encourages residents to be more conscious of their waste and sort waste properly, potentially leading to increased recycling efforts and diversion of recyclable and compostable materials from landfills. The program may even foster a behavioural shift toward waste reduction and more sustainable consumption patterns. Other communities that have adopted this program have seen up to a 30 per cent reduction in traditional garbage. |
Perception of intrusion: Some residents might perceive clear bag programs as intrusive or an infringement on their personal space as the contents of garbage bags would be visible to others. As a result, residents might initially resist the change to using clear bags. |
Improved accountability and contamination: Clear bags make it easier for waste collectors to identify (and potentially refuse) improper disposal, leading to better enforcement of waste diversion requirements. Because they allow for visual inspection, clear bags may reduce the likelihood of hazardous or prohibited items being placed in the garbage, which can improve waste stream quality and safety. |
Behavioral resistance: Some residents may continue to dispose of waste improperly or may not fully comply with or simply disregard the program's requirements. |
Enhanced public education: The program contributes to raising awareness about waste generation and encourages residents to think about their consumption habits and waste disposal choices. |
Educational efforts: Successful implementation requires ongoing education and outreach efforts to ensure residents understand the program's goals and requirements. |
Environmental impact: Encouraging proper waste sorting and reducing contamination contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly waste management system. |
Enforcement challenges: Monitoring compliance with clear bags might be challenging, especially during an initial period of transition, and addressing non-compliance could require additional resources. |
Cost implications: Introducing a clear-bag program may require residents to transition from their current opaque garbage bags to transparent ones, which could involve the purchase of new see-through bags for waste disposal. |
What do you think? Should the City adopt a clear bag program?
