While good in theory, these…

While good in theory, these changes seem to be causing confusion and likely more costs for municipalities -- both of which are recurring themes with this gov -- and less effective recycling. Saying the words 'transparency' and 'accountability' in all amendments does not make them true.

Toronto, for example, had expected private producers to take over recycling collection in public areas starting next year, but under the new plan, that won’t happen. Municipalities aren’t alone in the confusion; the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), which had endorsed the original move to EPR, says the new changes undermine the purpose of the transition and threaten to create expensive service gaps.

“Less material diverted means more waste in municipal landfills,” said AMO policy director Lindsay Jones in a statement. “These proposals may also exacerbate Ontario’s landfill capacity crisis, projected to reach its limit in less than 10 years.” AMO warns without funding or direction from the province, cities will have to decide whether to absorb the cost of collecting recyclables in public spaces or allow those services to vanish entirely.