The City of Laval has confirmed a significant change to its residential waste management system, approving a shift to biweekly garbage collection. The new schedule is set to take effect in 2026, as announced by municipal officials on January 12, 2026.
New System Aims for Waste Diversion
Under the revised plan, the familiar black bins, designated for non-recyclable and non-compostable waste, will be emptied every two weeks instead of weekly. The collection will be performed using trucks equipped with mechanical arms to improve efficiency. This change is a cornerstone of the city's broader strategy to reduce the amount of material sent to landfills and encourage residents to maximize their use of recycling and organic waste (compost) bins.
The decision was made public following a council meeting where the proposal was presented and debated. While the move has garnered support from environmental advocates, it has also met with some opposition from residents concerned about potential odors, pest attraction, and inconvenience, particularly for larger families.
Implementation and Public Response
City officials argue that similar programs have been successfully adopted in other Canadian municipalities, leading to a measurable decrease in overall garbage output. The multi-year lead time until 2026 is intended to allow for a comprehensive public education campaign. This campaign will focus on proper sorting techniques and the environmental benefits of waste diversion.
No start date more specific than the year 2026 was provided in the initial announcement. The city has stated that detailed rollout plans, including potential phased implementation by neighborhood, will be communicated to citizens well in advance.
Aligning with Provincial Environmental Goals
This policy shift aligns Laval with Quebec's provincial objectives for waste management and reduction. By extending the time between garbage pickups, the city aims to create a direct incentive for households to scrutinize what they throw away. The success of the program will hinge on resident participation and adaptation to the new rhythm of waste disposal.
Municipal representatives have indicated that they will monitor the system closely after implementation, addressing operational issues and public feedback as they arise. The long-term goal is to see a sustained reduction in landfill-bound waste, contributing to Laval's environmental sustainability targets.
