What Goes Where In Markham: An Informative Guide to Sorting and Recycling

Markham, being one of the most populous cities of Greater Toronto Area, is in constant pursuit to preserve the city’s beauty and cleanness. In a bid to contribute to this, the municipality has set stringent standards for waste disposal. Here’s an in-depth look into understanding what goes where in Markham when it comes to waste sorting.

The Green Bin

The Green Bin, a symbol of Markham's commitment to environmental stewardship, is used to dispose of organic waste. This includes food waste from fruits, vegetables, meat, bones, dairy products, coffee grounds, as well as other compostable materials like food-soiled paper products and yard waste. Note, however, that plastic bags are not allowed in the green bin - use only paper bags or line your bin with newspaper.

The Blue Bin

The Blue Bin is designed for recycling solid waste. Here's the place for glass bottles and jars, metal food and beverage cans, plastic bottles, jugs, and other plastic containers, as well as papers and cardboards. It’s necessary that these items are clean and dry before placed in the blue bin. Plastic bags and wrapping materials are not accepted, nor are ceramics or polystyrene foam.

The Grey Bin

In Markham, the Grey Bin is used for non-recyclable garbage. This is stuff that can't go in the Green or Blue Bin - broken toys, soiled packaging, non-recyclable plastics, and disposable hygiene products go here. Be wary that potentially hazardous materials are not meant for the grey bin. These can be taken to special depots or during designated hazardous waste disposal days.

Large Appliances and Furniture

Markham provides a free Large Appliance and Metal Goods collection service, where larger items can be picked up and recycled appropriately. These items include fridges, stoves, barbeques, metal furniture, and so on. It’s recommended to call in advance or apply online for the collection service.

Electronic and Hazardous Items

The city has designated depots and events for electronic and hazardous waste disposal. These are items like batteries, light bulbs, latex paint, insecticides, and electronic devices. It’s crucial to handle these materials with care as they can pose health or environmental risks when improperly disposed of.

Construction and Demolition Waste

Construction waste can be massive and complex. Most of the waste materials like lumber, metal, and concrete can be recycled. Markham offers bag tags for excess construction waste and also provides drop-off sites for proper disposal.

Clothing, Furniture and Housewares

Items that are in good condition can be donated or sold to extend their life and reduce landfill waste. The city has partnered with organizations that collect these items for free. In conclusion, Markham, continuing its vision of a sustainable city, has adopted comprehensive waste management strategies including recycling and disposal procedures. Making sense of what goes where is our contribution to maintaining the city’s cleanliness and ensuring the city and the environment stay healthy. Use this guide to make conscious decisions while disposing of your waste in Markham.