Email icon Back to Search
recycling bins sitting on the grassy curb

recycling bins on grassy curb


Starting February 1, 2025, the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal’s Blue Box recycling program will transition to being fully managed by Circular Materials, the administrator of the common collection system and a not-for-profit organization committed to building an efficient and effective recycling system in Ontario. This change is part of a province-wide shift to a full producer-funded system under Ontario’s Blue Box Regulation and applies to all residential properties in Edwardsburgh Cardinal.

What this means for you

For residential properties, there will be no changes to the materials you can recycle or your collection schedule this year. Simply place your recyclables curbside by 7 a.m. on your regular collection day, just as you do now.

In 2026, you will be able to recycle even more materials. Stay tuned for details.

Contact information for recycling inquiries

Starting February 1, any questions or concerns about recycling collection should be directed to Emterra:

If you have questions about your garbage collection or missed pickups, please continue to contact HGC at 1-833-425-2442.

Who is responsible for recycling and garbage collection?

The transition to a full producer-funded recycling system brings several changes to how services are managed, but the experience for residents will remain familiar:

  • Circular Materials: Administers the Blue Box recycling program in Ontario, ensuring consistency and efficiency.
  • Emterra: Manages recycling collection for Edwardsburgh Cardinal under Circular Materials and has subcontracted these services to HGC for 2025.
  • HGC: A familiar name, HGC has been contracted by the Township for garbage and recycling collection prior to the transition. HGC will continue to collect garbage for the Township and now also collects recycling as a subcontractor for Emterra.

Although there are new organizations managing the program, the actual collection process will remain the same for residents throughout 2025.

Looking ahead

This transition period lays the groundwork for a more enhanced and effective recycling system across Ontario. As we approach the full transition in 2026, residents will see more education and information about recycling later this year. These efforts will help us all prepare for the final steps of the transition and ensure we’re recycling as effectively as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the program changing?
Historically, Ontario’s blue box programs were operated by municipalities who were responsible for paying about half of the costs of the program, with producers responsible for the other half. Now, under the Blue Box Regulation, Ontario is transitioning to a new model where producers – the organizations that produce the products and packaging – are 100% responsible for operating and funding the program.
How does Circular Materials Ontario fit into this? 

Circular Materials is the administrator of the common collection system and a not-for-profit organization that is committed to building an efficient and effective recycling system in Ontario. Edwardsburgh Cardinal is collaborating with Circular Materials to deliver a best-in-class system that continues to deliver recycling services and support our residents.

During the transition period, there will be no change to what residents can recycle. Following transition, Ontario can expect to have a convenient, consistent, and effective recycling system in place that will improve recycling rates and meet the needs of Ontarians. Learn more about Circular Materials at www.circularmaterials.ca/ON.
What does extended producer responsibility (EPR) mean? 
EPR is a framework in which producers – the businesses that supply paper and packaging to residents – are responsible for managing the end-of-life management of these materials. EPR enables innovation, operational efficiencies, increased standard levels, and access to materials. It is recognized as one of the most effective mechanisms to improve recycling rates.
What advantages are associated with this new system? 
EPR is recognized as one of the most effective mechanisms to improve recycling rates and advance a circular economy where materials are collected, recycled, and returned to producers for use as recycled content in new products and packaging.
What about industrial, commercial, and institutional properties?
Industrial, commercial and institutional properties are not included in Circular Materials’ collection program. The Township will reach out directly to these properties during the 2025 transition period to provide information and help develop recycling solutions.
Does this transition mean my taxes or cost of garbage bags will be reduced?
Any financial impacts will be evaluated over time. The Township will still be responsible for solid waste collection and there are many factors that impact this cost. We do not expect any immediate reduction in the cost of curbside collection.
Will my recycling be picked up at the same time as garbage?
Yes, recycling will continue to be picked up on the same day and time as your garbage. Please continue to have your garbage and recycling placed curbside by 7 a.m. on collection day to ensure it is ready for collection. Should there be any changes to your collection day in the future, you will be made aware in advance.

Collection can occur at different times each week due to several factors, but if your garbage or recycling has not been picked up by 6 p.m., please report a missed collection to HGC or Emterra (recycling only).

Learn more

Visit circularmaterials.ca/edwardsburgh-cardinal for additional details about the recycling program and a copy of your recycling schedule.

Thank you for your cooperation and support as we transition to a more efficient and effective recycling system. Together, we’re making a difference for our community and the environment!