Simcoe County Council has approved a new voluntary organics collection program for multi-residential properties, set to roll out in the spring and summer. This initiative aims to expand access to organics diversion for residents living in multi-residential buildings that currently do not receive county-provided waste and recycling services.
The county collects organics from all residential properties with five units or less and some industrial, commercial, and institutional businesses across the region.
Currently, there are approximately 13,800 multi-residential units (i.e. apartments, condominiums, duplexes) that exist across the county, with approximately 4,200 of these already receiving organics collection. The remaining 9,600 multi-residential units, which may be located on private roads or in buildings that do not have ownership of waste, have not had access to the county’s curbside collection programs. This new program aims to close that gap by offering organics collection to all interested properties.
The decision follows a successful pilot program that was launched in 2023, which included 15 properties and 615 units. Audit results from the pilot demonstrated that residents are willing to participate in organics diversion when given the opportunity.
Implementation costs will be determined by the number of participating buildings/units that opt into the program. If, for example, participation rates reach 100% the anticipated annual cost would be $125,000. Costs will be accounted for in the county’s 2026 operating budget.
Key components of the county-wide rollout include:
- Continue service at pilot locations: Properties involved in the pilot will maintain uninterrupted organics collection to allow us to learn and adapt before the broader launch.
- Phased onboarding in 2026: The program will be introduced gradually in the spring and summer of 2026 to ensure residents are informed and prepared.
- Provide curbside carts: Participating properties will receive the necessary collection containers.
- Promotion and education: Each participating unit will receive a comprehensive kit that includes an information brochure, compostable bags, and a kitchen catcher. Additionally, communication with property managers will be maintained during the first year of implementation to look for areas of improvement.
- Regular monitoring: Visual and weighted waste audits will track contamination and participation rates, ensuring program effectiveness.
- Centralized Communication: All program-related communication with property managers will be coordinated through a single point of contact to ensure consistency and clarity.
“This initiative underscores the county’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and waste reduction, empowering more residents to take part in building a greener future,” said Warden Basil Clarke. “Simcoe County continues to be a regional leader in organic waste diversion, and with forward-thinking programs like this, we’re well-positioned to maintain that leadership for years to come.”
