Changes are coming to the Blue Box Program in 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, the responsibility of municipal blue box recycling across Ontario will shift from municipalities to the businesses and organizations that make, sell, distribute and import products and packaging. This is also known as ‘producer responsibility’ and includes curbside collection. This transition will help create a waste-free province and build a circular economy.  

Until the end of 2025, the Blue Box program will remain the same in York Region, so please continue to follow your city or town’s recycling guidelines.

In 2026, Circular Materials, a not-for-profit organization will manage the Blue Box program on behalf of the producers. This change in blue box recycling means:  

• More items will be recycled
• Recycling will be easier with the same items being accepted in the blue box across Ontario no matter where you live  
• Circular Materials will inform residents of any changes to what can go in the blue box or how those materials are collected and processed  

This transition will not affect other York Region waste programs like green bin, yard waste or garbage collection. They will continue to be collected by your city or town.  

For more information visit york.ca/BlueBox