Mayors push back as new recycling carts spark concern and frustration

Mayors push back as new recycling carts spark concern and frustration

Published Online: November 15, 2025

Written by: Kim Phillips

"Communities across York Region have been voicing confusion and frustration as new carts arrive ahead of a major provincial change to how recycling is managed.

The rollout is part of Ontario’s shift to “extended producer responsibility,” which hands control of blue box programs to manufacturers and producers instead of municipalities. Circular Materials, the organization overseeing the transition, will take over collection on Jan. 1, 2026.

But regional mayors say residents are being left with more questions than answers.

In a social media post on Tuesday, Newmarket Mayor John Taylor said municipalities have no decision-making power over the new blue bins, including their size. ..."

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