The City of St. John’s is reporting a dramatic increase in recycling thanks to their new clear bag by-law.

The by-law came into effect in January, requiring all garbage to be put into clear bags, except for one “privacy bag” per week—essentially making recycling mandatory.

The city says there has been an increase of between 30 and 40 per cent in recyclable material collected in January and February, compared with the same time period over the last five years.

The increase in comparison to 2021 is much higher at 68.5 per cent. However, the city notes that number may be skewed due to recycling being cancelled for two weeks because of the pandemic.

The city says next month, they will move on to the next phase of implementation, with crews doing spot checks for use of clear bags.

They say their approach will be “educational,” with stickers being left to remind or acknowledge people for their use of clear bags.

Deputy Manager of Public Works, LynnAnn Winsor, notes that while recycling is the main focus of the new rules, they are looking to reduce hazardous waste as well.

She says its surprising how many people dispose of fireworks in their garbage, resulting in fireworks going off in their vehicles and causing fires at the landfill.