Celebrating A Community Success Story: One Year of the Clear Bags Program

Community Update - Celebrating one year of clear bags

What a difference one year can make!

Muskoka’s clear bag program was launched last March with goals: reduce waste, improve recycling, and extend the life of the Rosewarne Landfill.

Thanks to the efforts of residents, businesses, and seasonal visitors, we are seeing real results one year later. Approximately 336,000 fewer garbage bags went into the Rosewarne Landfill over the last year, which avoided almost $700,000 in landfill disposal fees, freeing up more space and extending its lifespan by approximately two years.

1 Year Of Clear Bags

"The community stepped up to the challenge," said Renee Recoskie, Director of Waste Management and Environmental Services. "Thinking a little bit more about the waste they generate, benefits current and future generations of Muskokans."

Changing how we think about waste:

Many residents have shared that clear bags helped them better understand what they throw away. More households are making simple, everyday changes. These include sorting properly, reducing packaging, and using reusable items.

Key results from public education efforts:

Cleaner waste streams with less contamination
Better sorting habits at the curb
Improved safety for collection crews

Environmental benefits

Organics diversion increased by 1,285 tonnes this year alone, highlighting this program's environmental benefits. The program and community efforts have reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 1,110 tonnes of CO2. To put this impact into perspective, this is equivalent to removing approximately 240 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles from the road for one year.

As the program enters its second year, the focus remains on education, support, and continuous improvement. The District will continue to share tips and resources to help residents stay informed and confident.

"Thank you to everyone who took one last look at what they put into the garbage”, said James Steele, Commissioner of Engineering and Public Works for the District of Muskoka. "This thoughtfulness made year one a success, together, we are building a cleaner and more sustainable Muskoka."

For more information about the clear bag program, visit
www.muskoka.on.ca/clear-bags or contact waste@muskoka.on.ca