Better curbside recycling system needed
I echo concerns raised by others about MNC’s curbside pickup recycling program. The scope of the program appears to be narrowed to a such a degree that one must question whether it’s worth the trouble. No doubt like many, we in our home are happy to sort and store the various categories of waste to await their weekly or biweekly pickups. But that’s only the start. Separate arrangements must then be made for numerous other recyclable materials. This cumbersome and piecemeal process surely detracts from the goal of encouraging participation in the program. Indeed for some who don’t have access to a vehicle, full participation is impossible.
There may be reasons to explain this unambitious approach on the part of MNC (perhaps conditions in the recyclable market, internal logistics, the lack of senior government support, cost or something else). Regardless, it may be worthwhile to go back to first principles and examine why such a program is required and whether the current iteration is sufficient or has gotten off track. As of now it is necessary to make separate arrangements for soft plastic, styrofoam, light bulbs, glass jars, batteries, paint cans and more. I suppose an option would be to add paper, cardboard, tin cans and light plastics to complete that list and drop the biweekly pickup altogether. That, however, would not be my choice.
I think we need a robust curbside pickup program for recyclables. It’s time for MNC and involved partners to consider how that might be better achieved.
Mick Grainger
Maple Bay