Residents reminded to help produce top-quality compost by using 100 per cent certified compostable bags in the green bin

WHEN:

Effective immediately, all residents are asked to use only 100 per cent compostable liner bags (those carrying a certified compostable logo), or paper food waste bags, in their green bins, rather than those advertised as biodegradable or oxo biodegradable.

WHERE:

All Durham Region residents are required to use the appropriate bags in their green bins.

WHY:

Compostable bags completely break down and become part of the finished compost. Liner bags advertised as biodegradable or oxo biodegradable are not compostable. They are plastic-based bags that do not break down completely, resulting in residues that reduce the quality of finished compost. When these bags are spotted inside the green bin, the waste collector tags the container and leaves the materials at the curb. Therefore, even though these bags may be advertised as acceptable for use in municipal programs, they are not acceptable and will not be collected in Durham Region.

When purchasing bags for the food waste kitchen container or curbside Green Bin, residents should look for paper food bags or bags that contain one, or both, of the following logos:

NOTE:

For a list of 100 per cent certified compostable liner bag brands, visit the Waste Management section of the Region's website at www.durhamregionwaste.ca, email waste@durham.ca, or call 905-579-5264 (toll-free at 1-800-667-5671).

Durham's waste diversion programs are successful because of the commitment of residents. Last year, Durham Region, along with Miller Waste Systems, was awarded the 2009 Composting System Gold Excellence Award for its composting program, and the way in which Miller Waste Systems processes these organics.