Ottawa is expanding its waste diversion efforts by installing three-stream waste bins in 48 additional parks across the city this year. The initiative, announced on June 15, 2026, aims to make recycling and composting more accessible in public spaces, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Expansion of Waste Diversion Program
The three-stream bins allow users to separate waste into three categories: landfill, recycling, and compost. This system has already been implemented in several parks and has proven effective in increasing diversion rates. The new bins will be installed in parks throughout the city, with completion expected by the end of the summer.
Environmental Benefits
By providing clear separation options, the city hopes to reduce contamination in recycling and compost streams. This move supports Ottawa's long-term waste management goals and climate action plan, which targets a 70% waste diversion rate by 2030.
Residents are encouraged to use the bins correctly to maximize environmental benefits. The city will also launch an educational campaign to inform park visitors about proper sorting.
Community Response
Local environmental groups have praised the expansion, noting that convenient access to composting and recycling in parks can significantly reduce litter and greenhouse gas emissions. Some residents have expressed concerns about bin capacity and maintenance, but the city assures that collection schedules will be adjusted to meet demand.
The project is part of a broader strategy to modernize Ottawa's waste infrastructure and promote sustainable practices among residents and visitors alike.
