It has officially been over a month since Norfolk County’s new green cart program was introduced.
The new automated collection system launched September 28, introducing weekly green cart collection and moving garbage pickup to every other week.
Supervisor of Waste Management Merissa Bokla says one month later, there certainly has been a notable difference at the landfill.
Bokla said she is also encouraged by all the good stories she has been hearing over the past 30 days.
She noted some residents who were initially doubtful have since reported finding the program easier than expected.
While participation has been positive, there are still some reminders.
Bokla says residents should know that proper placement is essential for automated collection.
She added garbage must fit inside the grey cart with the lid fully closed.
Bags placed beside or on top of the cart will not be collected.
Keeping lids closed also helps prevent material from falling onto the roadway when carts are lifted into the truck.
Residents who choose to bag their food waste should use certified compostable bags that will break down during processing.
Regular plastic garbage bags should not be used, and paper yard waste bags are intended for the separate yard waste program.
Bags are optional.
Food scraps can go directly into the green cart, and newspaper can be used to line the smaller kitchen container.
Bokla also noted that this is the first Halloween under the new program.
Collection schedules and further information about accepted materials and cart placement are available through Norfolk County.
