CALGARY RECYCLING BYLAWS
Both multi-family residential and commercial buildings in Calgary are facing new city bylaws requiring that recycling programs be in place. The multi-family recycling bylaw came into effect on February 1, 2016. The commercial recycling bylaw will come into effect on November 1, 2016. Both have specific directives to help ensure that the recycling programs are effective.
MULTI-FAMILY RECYCLING
The Calgary Multi-Family Recycling Bylaw applies to apartment buildings, condominium buildings and complexes, townhouses, and any other residential building or development with at least five units. There is a lot of flexibility for residential buildings in how they implement a program. The only requirements are that recyclables must be collected and stored on site and that they must be taken to a recycling facility at some point. Each building is free to manage their own program or use a service that complies with the bylaws.
COMMERCIAL RECYCLING
The directives for businesses and organizations are very similar. They must collect and store recyclable material separate from ordinary waste that is generated by customers and employees. The recyclables must be taken to a recycling facility. Organizations that will be effected by this bylaw include schools, offices, stores, restaurants, churches, industrial, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. For a full list of who is included check out the Recycling Bylaw Requirements published by The City of Calgary.
TIPS TO HELP
The City of Calgary has said that an educational approach will be taken in enforcing these bylaws. Information will be provided to help buildings comply, but in the end a fine could be issued. Here are some tips to help your building comply with the bylaws and have an effective recycling program:
- Determine a good collection point. This will be an easily accessible location that makes sense to your residents or employees.
- Balance storage capacity with pick-up frequency. Choose the appropriate number and right size of bins based on how frequent the pick-ups will be. More bins often require less pick-ups, and vise versa. If space is limited then frequent pick-ups with small bins or totes may be preferable.
- Notify your residents & employees. Make sure everyone knows about the program and what is accepted.
- Make sure collected recyclables end up at a recycling center. Confirm with you service provider that they are going to the right place.
- Monitor the recycling program and make adjustments to reflect actual usage. As the program catches on maybe more bins will be required. You may be able to reduce garbage waste needs if enough is being recycled.
