The state of garbage in Canada

CANADA'S recycling rate (including composting) is estimated at 23 percent, according to the second annual BioCycle State of Garbage in Canada. Waste generation is estimated at 25.1 million metric tons nationwide. Curbside recycling programs increased to 1,400 from 1,217 the year before.

The figures show a marked change from the first State of Garbage in Canada report, published in February, 1996. Waste generation at that time was estimated at 20.3 million metric tons, with 15 percent recycled. The changes found since last year are due to both better accounting on the part of provinces/territories, and real gains in waste diversion. The biggest accounting change took place in …