Ontario to expand the list of items accepted in blue boxes

The province is making changes to standardize recycling programs across the province.

Ontario will standardize the blue box program across more than 250 municipalities and shift the cost to operate it from communities to waste producers.

The government says the move will save $156 million a year.

Environment Minister Jeff Yurek says the program will also now mean additional items will
be accepted in blue boxes including plastic cups, foils, trays and bags.

Single use items such as stir sticks, straws, cutlery and plates will also be permitted in blue bins under the proposal.

The program will be phased in starting in 2023 in Toronto, London, Kenora, and the Town of Hawkesbury.

Adam Atkinson reports.