Blue Box and recycling changes coming January 2026

November 07, 2025

Kawartha Lakes – Changes are coming to Ontario’s Blue Box program on January 1, 2026, including updates to accepted materials and recycling collection services in Kawartha Lakes. This change is part of a province-wide shift under Ontario’s Resource Recovery and Circular Economy Act, 2016, which makes producers responsible for the collection, processing and recycling of products and packaging.

What’s changing

A new recycling collector, Emterra Environmental, will begin picking up recycling from homes across Kawartha Lakes on behalf of Circular Materials Ontario (CMO). Garbage collection will continue with Miller Waste, and both garbage and recycling will still be collected on the same day, just by different trucks.

Three recycling bins sitting on the curb on a sunny day

Residents do not need to make any changes to their current recycling routine before January 2026. Until the change takes effect, residents should continue to contact Miller Waste for any recycling issues.

After January 1, 2026, Emterra Environmental will be responsible for recycling inquiries, such as missed collection or damaged bins. Contact information will be made available through the City website and the Recycle Coach App.

New materials accepted in the Blue Box

The Province is expanding the list of materials accepted in the Blue Box program. Starting January 1, 2026, new items will include:

Hot and cold beverage cups (lids are already accepted)
Styrofoam
Additional flexible packaging, such as chip and granola bar wrappers
Deodorant and toothpaste containers; and more

Full details on updated Blue Box materials will be shared through the website, social channels, Municipal Calendar, and the Recycle Coach App.

Impacts for businesses and organizations

Beginning January 1, 2026, curbside recycling collection under the new program will be limited to residential properties only. Recycling collection will no longer be provided to:

Private-sector businesses
Commercial portions of mixed-use buildings
Places of worship
Commercial farms
Municipal buildings and facilities
Non-profit organizations (e.g., shelters, food banks)
Daycares and post-secondary institutions

These properties can continue to recycle by using the City’s five landfill depot locations (tipping fees apply) or by arranging private recycling collection. For more information, visit the Commercial Waste Collection area of the website.

Working together for a smooth transition

“This is a significant shift happening across Ontario,” said Heather Dzurko, Manager of Waste Management for the City of Kawartha Lakes. “We’re committed to ensuring that residents and businesses in Kawartha Lakes have the information and support they need as recycling services transition to Circular Materials Ontario.”

For ongoing updates about waste and recycling services in Kawartha Lakes, visit the Garbage and Recycling page, follow the City on social media, or use the Recycle Coach App.

For details on Ontario’s Blue Box program, visit the Waste Management page on the Ontario government’s website.

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