REMINDER: Blue Box Program Changes in Hamilton
- Crista Cooper
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
The way recycling works in Hamilton has changed — and that change started on April 1, 2025. Here’s a recap of what you need to know to stay informed.
📅 Key Dates
April 1, 2025 – Transition Began
Under the new program the City of Hamilton will no longer be responsible for operating or paying for the Blue Box recycling program. It will now be managed by the producers of packaging and paper through an organization called Circular Materials. They’ve hired GFL Environmental Inc. to handle curbside collection. This change was brought forward by provincial level direction.
April 1 – December 31, 2025 – Transition Period
During this period, you’ll see no changes to how or when your recycling is collected. Please continue using:
One blue box (or clear bag) for containers
One blue box (or clear bag) for paper and cardboard
January 1, 2026 – New Provincial Recycling System Starts
This is when the province-wide Common Collection System comes into effect. At that point, Circular Materials may change:
Your collection day
How recycling is collected (e.g., frequency, type of container)
We’ll ensure the community is informed of any updates as they occur.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Blue Box Program Changing?
In the past, municipalities like Hamilton split the cost of recycling with packaging producers. Now, under Ontario’s updated Blue Box Regulation, the producers will take full responsibility, covering 100% of the cost and operations. This is meant to encourage less packaging waste and more efficient recycling.
Who’s Collecting My Recycling?
As of April 1, 2025, your blue box recycling will be picked up by GFL Environmental Inc., not the City. This includes:
Single-family homes
Multi-residential buildings
Some schools and long-term care homes
Certain public spaces
➡️ Contact GFL for recycling issues starting April 1, 2025:
📧 Email: HamiltonRecycling@gflenv.com
📞 Phone: 1-844-415-4351
Will My Collection Day Change?
No changes until January 1, 2026. Keep using two blue boxes or clear bags as usual. If any changes happen in 2026, we’ll help you stay updated.
How Do I Get a New or Replacement Blue Box?
Before March 31, 2025:
Call 905-546-CITY (2489) to get a service number
Pick up a box at a Municipal Service Centre or Community Recycling Centre
Due to high demand, some locations may temporarily run out
After April 1, 2025:
Contact GFL for replacements
If you need an extra box, purchase one at a retail store
What If I Have a Problem With GFL’s Service?
➡️ Contact Circular Materials:📧 Email: info@circularmaterials.ca📞 Phone: 1-877-667-2626
➡️ Want to share concerns with the City of Hamilton too?
📧 Email: wastemanagementrecycling@hamilton.ca
📞 Phone: 905-546-CITY (2489)
Who is Circular Materials?
They’re a national non-profit chosen by producers to manage the new Blue Box system in Ontario. Their goal is to create a modern, efficient recycling system.
I’m a Business — Do I Still Get Blue Box Collection?
Until December 31, 2025, yes. Hamilton City Council approved continued recycling service for:
Local businesses
City facilities
Special events
After that, it’s still to be determined. GFL will handle collection, and all issues go to:
📞 1-844-415-4351
I Manage a Multi-Residential Building — What About Us?
Yes — multi-residential buildings are still eligible for blue box collection under the new system.
What’s Changing at the Community Recycling Centres?
Blue box materials (containers, paper, cardboard) still accepted until December 31, 2025
Bulky rigid plastics (like toys or storage bins) are no longer recyclable — please dispose of them as garbage
Commercial cardboard is no longer accepted at Transfer Stations
Blue boxes will no longer be available for pick-up or exchange after March 31, 2025
Are Other City Waste Programs Affected?
No changes! Your garbage, green bin, yard waste, and bulk garbage are still handled by the City of Hamilton.📧 askcity@hamilton.ca📞 905-546-CITY (2489)
Is the City Saving Money?
Yes.
2024 Cost: $11 million
2025 Projected Cost: $4.4 million. That’s a $6.6 million savings — with more potential savings in 2026 depending on future decisions about business and facility recycling.
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