Waste Wise pilot program update

The Waste Wise pilot program is designed to make things easier for our residential customers by introducing curbside recycling and limiting garbage. Since kicking off in two neighbourhoods on May 20, and one pick-up complete in each, the City would like to thank those who have participated so far.  

"Our ultimate goal is to see 100 per cent participation, and with the help of our community, we believe we can get there," says Jeff Hussey, Director of Public Works for the City of Saint John. "We understand that this is a new way of disposing of waste and it may take time to adapt to the new system, but what's most encouraging is that after just two weeks, we have already been impressed with the results. We know the community is helping, and there is an opportunity to do even better."   

Results of the pilot program are being tracked. As of May 28, approximately 40 per cent of residents in the Rockwood area took advantage of the compost and recycling pick up, and only 26 per cent put out extra bags of waste for the first pick-up. 

In the Latimore Lake area, approximately 37 per cent of residents composted, 29 per cent recycled, and 34 per cent put out extra bags of waste. 

“Understanding that we have only completed the initial pick-up of this new service, we anticipate the participation will increase moving forward,” says Hussey.   

As a reminder recycling is picked up the night prior to your regular garbage and compost collection.  Please have your recycling out the night prior no later than 11 p.m. and garbage and compost out by 7 a.m. the following morning. 

For tips on how to sort your garbage, compost and recycling please visit, www.saintjohn.ca/wastewise  

Don’t have a compost cart? Visit the Fundy Regional Service Commissions website to apply for your free compost cart.  

Thank you again to all pilot participants, we are looking forward to sharing more data as the pilot program continues. 

We value your feedback and want to hear from you. Please email wastewise@saintjohn.ca with your comments or contact our Customer Service Centre at (506) 658-4455.