Organics are the heaviest part of many household waste streams because food and yard material hold water. Diverting them keeps that weight out of garbage and turns it into compost. There are two common routes at home: a municipal green-cart program, and a backyard or counter system you manage yourself.
Green-cart organics programs
Green-cart collection is widespread across Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, and parts of the Prairies, though accepted items differ by program. Many municipal organics programs accept a broader list than a backyard pile because industrial composting reaches higher temperatures.
- Food scraps including meat, bones, and dairy are accepted in many green-cart programs.
- Food-soiled paper such as napkins and paper towel is often accepted.
- Compostable liners are sometimes required and sometimes prohibited, so confirm locally.
Green cart and backyard bins accept different things
A backyard bin runs cooler than industrial composting, so meat, dairy, and oily food are usually kept out to avoid pests and odours. The same items are frequently fine in a municipal green cart. Always match the rules to the system you are using.
A simple backyard balance
Backyard composting works on a rough balance of two ingredient types:
Too many greens turn the pile wet and odorous; too many browns slow it to a stop. Turning introduces air, which the decomposing organisms need.
What to keep out of a backyard pile
- Meat, fish, and dairy, which attract animals in an open or cool bin.
- Oils and fats, which mat the pile and slow airflow.
- Pet waste, which can carry pathogens not destroyed at backyard temperatures.
- Items labelled compostable only for industrial facilities.
Counter collection in small homes
- Use a lidded countertop container to gather scraps between trips outside.
- Empty it often to limit odour, every day or two in warm weather.
- Line it only if your program allows the liner type you have.
For municipal organics rules, your local collection authority is the authoritative source. Broader context on organic waste diversion in Canada is available through Environment and Climate Change Canada.