Energy Outlook

By: Jacob Kim

Quebec’s new curbside recycling system marks a pivotal moment in the province’s fight against climate change. With an emphasis on accessibility, ease of use, and corporate responsibility, this initiative has the potential to significantly reduce waste sent to landfills and increase the overall recycling rate. However, the success of this system will depend on public participation and the larger systemic changes it inspires.

The revamped system eliminates the guesswork often associated with recycling. By allowing households to dispose of containers, packaging, and printed paper in a single bin, Quebec is removing a common barrier to participation: confusion. This simplified approach, combined with the distribution of ergonomic blue bins that accommodate larger volumes, makes recycling more accessible, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges. Marie-Claude Rivet of Eco Entreprise Quebec emphasized that the program is designed to encourage more recycling by making it easier for residents to comply. Additionally, the inclusion of producer responsibility ensures that companies must design packaging with recyclability in mind, further closing the loop on waste.

Recycling is not merely a matter of convenience—it plays a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Landfills are a major source of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere far more effectively than carbon dioxide. By diverting waste from landfills and repurposing materials, Quebec’s new system can mitigate methane emissions and lessen the demand for resource-intensive manufacturing processes. Moreover, creating a streamlined recycling infrastructure encourages the development of circular economies. The sorting centers that process these materials ensure that valuable resources are reused rather than discarded, reducing the need for virgin material extraction. This helps preserve natural ecosystems, a key factor in the global fight against climate change.

A standout feature of this initiative is the involvement of Eco Entreprise Quebec as a producer responsibility organization. By mandating companies to finance and manage the recycling of their own packaging, the system places the onus on manufacturers to design sustainable products. This could set a precedent for broader corporate accountability across Canada and beyond, incentivizing innovation in packaging materials and design.

Despite its potential, the system’s success hinges on behavioral change at the household level. As Westmount resident Michael Maltais observed, some people still do not recycle. For this program to make a significant impact, Quebec must invest in public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the new system and its environmental importance. Additionally, items excluded from the bins—such as styrofoam, aerosol cans, and textiles—pose a challenge. Without parallel systems for these materials, they risk ending up in landfills. Expanding the scope of recyclable materials and creating specialized disposal programs will be essential to achieving a truly comprehensive waste management strategy.

Quebec’s new recycling system is more than a logistical upgrade—it’s a shift toward climate-conscious living. By making recycling easier for individuals and holding companies accountable, this initiative aligns with the province’s broader sustainability goals. While it won’t solve climate change on its own, it represents a critical step in reducing waste, lowering emissions, and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. If successfully implemented and scaled, Quebec’s approach could serve as a model for other regions, demonstrating how localized actions can contribute to global climate solutions. For many, this might just be the perfect New Year’s resolution to start 2025 on a greener note.

Sources

https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/new-recycling-system-coming-to-quebec-in-the-new-year-1.7137648