Shifting streams: increasing recyclable material recovery in Vancouver

This study examines public policy approaches to increase the recovery of residentially generated recyclable materials in Vancouver, British Columbia. Four policy options are considered: a bylaw-oriented approach, changes to the City’s Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) garbage system, single-stream recycling, and expanding product deposit programs. Each is analyzed and assessed on a number of key criteria, with ratings and findings based on existing literature and extensive consultation with industry experts. I conclude that changes to the current PAYT fee structure along with a transition from weekly to bi-weekly garbage collection would provide residents strong, effective incentives to increase their recycling efforts. I also recommend improved solid waste container labelling, and continued expansion of deposit programs for appropriate products, primarily as measures to increase the lacklustre recycling performance of multi-family residences.