We’re talking about the 30-year waste plan for Ottawa at the environment committee right now and there’s an interesting history of recycling in one of the reference documents.

City of Ottawa recycling history

1983: Collection of paper, cardboard, plastics, metals and glass

1990: Distribution of backyard composters

1992: Hosting of household hazardous waste depots

1997: Take It Back partnership with retailers

1999: Dual stream blue and black box recycling

1999: Spring and fall leaf and yard collection

1999: Christmas tree collection

2006: Yellow bag program for commercial waste

2007: Hosting of electronic waste events

2007: Giveaway weekends

2009: Battery collection receptacles at city facilities

2010: Green bin program