Northumberland County residents will soon see an expanded recycling program as Ontario transitions to a new producer-led Blue Box system beginning January 1, 2026.
Under this updated framework, producers of packaging and paper products will take full responsibility for funding and operating recycling programs across the province – an approach known as extended producer responsibility (EPR). The goal is to make recycling more consistent, accessible, and environmentally effective for all Ontarians.
For residents, the change will be largely seamless. Northumberland County notes that collection schedules and set-out procedures will remain the same, but the list of accepted materials will expand significantly. New recyclable items will include chip bags, wrappers, pet food bags, stand-up resealable pouches, toothpaste tubes, deodorant sticks, styrofoam, bubble wrap, and coffee cup lids.
As part of the transition, Northumberland County will no longer oversee the Blue Box program. A new contact for recycling inquiries – such as missed pickups or bin exchanges – will be provided before the system takes effect.
Officials say the province-wide model will help ensure that no matter where Ontarians live, they will have access to the same recycling options.
Residents can learn more about the upcoming changes and what to expect by visiting northumberland.ca/en/living-here/transition-of-recycling-system-to-producers.aspx.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)