Not Recycling Properly Can Lead To Hefty Fines

Recycling is not a privilege, it’s a fight.

For all that’s known about the value and importance of preserving every ounce of our precious resources, many still don’t take the time to put the proper waste in the proper place, and that’s why Toronto ‘s “recycling police” are finally taking to the streets, and taking matters into their own hands.

There’s also an educational aspect to the effort. Terry Vanelsywyk, a city by-law officer, spends his time trying to teach people how to better their poor recycling habits and scolding them financially when they don’t.

Some people get it right, with their recyclables neatly sorted and lined up tightly along the curb.

Others? Not so much.

“It does (make me sad),” admitted Vanelsywyk upon seeing several garbage bags stuffed with recyclable paper.

“If we look up and down these streets there’s actually recycling being collected today.”

A three-hour tour through the city Wednesday turned up lots of disappointing dumping, including some illegal unloading comprised of 100 per cent recyclable material.

The fines are $125 for putting recyclables in the garbage and $360 for illegal dumping.

There were more than 3,000 charges laid in 2006.

People found ignoring the recycling by-laws will be issued a warning, but that warning can turn into a fine in less time than it takes you to sort your papers and plastics.

“If people choose to put their garbage out illegally, and they just keep doing it and keep doing it eventually I’m going to get them,” Vanelsywyk promises.

City officials encourage people to report any illegal dumping, which can be done by calling (416) 392-0843.

And for more on Solid Waste Management protocols, click here.