If your garbage bin is too big or too small, now is your chance to make a swap. The Region of Waterloo has launched a black bin exchange program as the new cart-based waste disposal system passes the six month mark. People with single-family households can submit a request to change their bin from a small 120L cart to the 240L option between Oct. 5 and Oct. 31. The one-time exchange is free. During the rollout of the cart-based system, residents were offered both options. However, anyone who did not make a choice were given the large cart by default. “It’s been over six months now and we hope during that time residents have been able to determine, ‘Is this the right size for me? Does this size fit my needs?’” Olivia Kwok, the Region of Waterloo’s director of waste management, said. Although the program got off to a rocky start, Kwok said they have received positive feedback. “We’ve heard from residents they like that instead of lifting and dragging heavy bags up to the curb, that they’re able to roll [the cart] and push it with the wheels. We’ve heard a lot about how pests are no longer getting into the bags,” Kwok said. Kwok said the new system has also been easier on contrators. “When it was previous with bags, there would be a lot of slips, trips, falls and potential injuries, so now we’re making the work safer for our contractors, which is really important.” Requests can be made online, or by calling 519-575-4400. Owners of two- to six-unit properties must reach out to carts@regionofwaterloo.ca. How does the exchange work? Homeowners do not need to bring their cart anywhere for the exchange. Once a request is submitted, they will receive a confirmation email. The confirmation email will include when the cart should be left out on your property in a location accessible from the road. “It just has to be accessible so that our contractors can switch it out for you. Don’t leave it out at the curb unless it is your collection day.” said Kwok. A new bin will be dropped off and the old one will be taken away. Some of the new bins may be gently used. Exchanges will happen in November. Residents can also buy an additional green cart, if needed.
