Curbside recycling switch urged in Fundy region

The Fundy Region Solid Waste Commissions general manager is urging communities to consider moving to a curbside recycling service before it replaces its entire fleet of community bins.

Marc MacLeod, the commissions general manager, says it will cost $4 million to replace the 141 blue roadside recycling containers located throughout the region.

"Do we want to go and invest in bins that are going to last 10 to 15 years when in three to four years maybe we end up at curbside? Is it worth a $4-million investment?" he asked.

"Maybe we need to make the call sooner. So it's kind of a broad scope conversation. We just don't want to go and spend $4 million for no reason if we're going to switch."

Rothesay is already looking to make a change. The town has applied for an Environmental Trust Fund grant for a pilot project to use curbside recycling later this year.

The Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission is responsible for solid waste disposal and diversion in the greater Saint John area, including the Crane Mountain Landfill and the recycling and compost programs.

It is funded solely through the various tipping fees at the landfill.

Corrugated cardboard, paper and boxboard, plastic, metal and milk containers are currently accepted at the community recycling bins, baled and sold directly to market.