As the city of Calgary continues to strive towards reducing waste and increasing recycling rates, the green bin program has become an essential component of the community's waste management strategy. The green bin is designed to collect organic materials, such as food waste and yard trimmings, which are then converted into nutrient-rich compost. However, proper sorting and preparation of these materials are crucial to ensure the program's success. In this article, we will provide 10 Calgary green bin tips to help residents easily sort and participate in the program.
Understanding the Green Bin Program
The City of Calgary’s green bin program is a curbside collection service that allows residents to dispose of organic materials, including food waste, yard trimmings, and other compostable items. The program aims to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and create a valuable resource for gardening and landscaping. To participate in the program, residents need to understand what materials are accepted and how to properly prepare them for collection.
Accepted Materials
The following materials are accepted in the Calgary green bin program:
- Food waste, including fruits, vegetables, meat, bones, and dairy products
- Yard trimmings, such as leaves, grass clippings, and branches
- Houseplants and flowers
- Wood ashes from fireplaces or woodstoves
- Coffee grounds and tea bags
- Eggshells and nutshells
| Material | Accepted |
|---|---|
| Food waste | Yes |
| Yard trimmings | Yes |
| Houseplants | Yes |
| Plastic bags | No |
| Pet waste | No |
10 Calgary Green Bin Tips
Here are 10 tips to help residents easily sort and participate in the Calgary green bin program:
- Keep a small container in the kitchen to collect food waste and other organic materials throughout the day.
- Use paper bags or newspaper to line the green bin and make cleaning easier.
- Avoid adding plastic bags or styrofoam to the green bin, as they are not accepted and can contaminate the materials.
- Chop or shred yard trimmings into smaller pieces to help them break down faster.
- Include a mix of green materials (food waste, grass clippings) and brown materials (dried leaves, wood ashes) to create a balanced compost.
- Keep the green bin clean and dry to prevent odors and pest issues.
- Store the green bin in a convenient location, such as the garage or a shed, to make it easily accessible.
- Participate in the community composting program to learn more about composting and get tips from experienced composters.
- Use the City of Calgary’s waste sorting app to help identify what materials are accepted in the green bin program.
- Encourage family members and neighbors to participate in the green bin program and make it a community effort.
What materials are not accepted in the Calgary green bin program?
+Materials not accepted in the Calgary green bin program include plastic bags, pet waste, metal, glass, and ceramic. It is essential to check the City of Calgary's website for a comprehensive list of accepted and non-accepted materials.
How often is the green bin collected?
+The green bin is collected weekly, on the same day as the blue bin. However, it is essential to check the City of Calgary's website for specific collection schedules and any changes to the program.
By participating in the Calgary green bin program and following these 10 tips, residents can contribute to a more sustainable community and help reduce waste. Remember to always check the City of Calgary’s website for updates and guidelines on the green bin program, and encourage others to join in the effort to create a cleaner, greener city.
