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Quinte Waste Solutions
FAQ FAQ
Why didn't my Blue Box get picked up?

We probably hear this question more than any other. The answer, in almost everyinstance, has something to do with the materials in the box not being sorted properly. While some parts of Ontario run recycling programs that allow residents to throw all the materials in together, these programs also cost a lot more because of the expense of extra sorting at the plant. In Centre & South Hastings, we rely heavily on residents to do a significant part of the sorting at home. Because our residents do such a fine job, our recycling program is among the most efficient anywhere in Canada - and the level of participation is unequalled! In addition to this, the "Capture Rate" (that's the percentage of each material that gets recycled as opposed to going in the garbage) is also one of the highest. Sometimes we hear people say that our program expects too much of residents, but our figures speak for themselves. A high level of understanding and a willingness to participate and help out has made our program one that we can all be proud of. For a complete list of what's recyclable and what isn't and how to set out your Blue Box, click here.

The bottom of plastic automotive oil containers has a recyclable symbol. Why does the recycling truck driver always leave them in my blue box?
While the plastic that oil containers are made of is recyclable (hence the symbol), the problem stems from the fact that the oil in the container gets absorbed right into the plastic, contaminating the plastic for recycling purposes. Companies that purchase this high density polyethylene plastic (code 2) quite simply do not want to accept loads of plastic that contain empty oil containers. To ensure that our loads of plastic are not rejected as contaminated, we do everything we can to ensure that these loads do not contain empty oil containers.
Are light bulbs and fluorescent tubes recyclable?
Fluorescent tubes are now recyclable through the Centre & South Hastings Hazardous Waste Collection Program. Click here to go to the schedule of hazardous waste collection dates and locations for the current year. Regular incandescent bulbs are not recyclable and should go in the garbage.
Where can I get a new or replacement Blue Box?
Blue boxes are usually available from your local municipal office. While there is normally a fee of about $6.00, policies may vary from one municipality to the next.
  • Quinte Waste Solutions, 270 West St., Trenton
  • Village Green, Ashley St. Foxboro
  • Prince Edward County Public Works, Mallory Road
  • Prince Edward County Roads Dept., Lake St., Picton
  • *Prince Edward County Public Works Office, 37 Church St., Picton *Exchange Only*
  • Rossmore Stop, Prince Edward County
  • Marmora & Lake Municipal Office
  • Tyendinaga Municipal Office
  • Tweed Municipal Office
  • Centre Hastings Municipal Office, Ivanhoe
  • Frankford Municipal Office
  • Bloomfield Public Works Office, 126 County Road 32
  • *Stirling-Rawdon Township Office *Purchase Only*
  • Madoc Township Office
  • Wollaston Township Office
Is wood recyclable?
Yes and no! Wood products are not recyclable in the Blue Box. There is however, a local wood recycler. Try calling Rancor Wood Recycling, just north of Belleville at 962-6805, or in the Trenton area, call Scaletta at 392-7109.
Are paint cans recyclable?
Empty paint cans (that have 1/4" of dry paint or less in the bottom) can be placed in your Blue Box with the lids off. If the paint cans have paint in them, bring them to the Household Hazardous Waste Depot. For a complete listing of our Household Hazardous Waste events for this year, click here.
Where can I buy a composter?
Call Quinte Waste Solutions at 394-6266 to find out where to get a composter.