Gananoque prepares for blue box transition

Gananoque’s recycling system is about to turn a new page, but town officials say residents can rest easy knowing their blue boxes aren’t going anywhere—just shifting responsibility.

As part of Ontario’s provincewide transition to an extended producer responsibility (EPR) framework, the Town of Gananoque will hand over management of its blue box recycling program to Circular Materials, a not-for-profit organization overseeing the common collection system. The shift takes effect on March 31.

This change comes from a 2021 regulation passed by the Ontario government, which places financial and operational responsibility for blue box recycling directly on producers—those who manufacture and supply recyclable materials to residents. The transition is rolling out between 2023 and 2025, with full implementation set for Jan. 1, 2026.

Despite the shift in oversight, Gananoque residents will see no changes in how they recycle. However, collection days are on the move. Starting March 31, recycling pickup will occur on Tuesdays and Fridays—bringing it in sync with garbage collection.

The town encourages residents to stay informed and follow the updated schedule to ensure a smooth transition.