Large rigid plastic items: things like lawn furniture, car seats, and other bulky household plastics are now accepted at Hartland Landfill’s Recycling Depot at no cost. The change is a significant shift from traditional disposal methods, offering a more practical use for these materials that previously took up valuable space in the landfill.
The term “rigid plastics” refers to large, durable plastic items that are not part of an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program in British Columbia. These include:
- Car seats
- Children’s swimming pools
- Coolers
- Kayaks and paddleboards
- Lawn chairs
- Non-electric children’s toys
- Storage drums
- Pet carriers
- Plastic toolboxes
- PVC and ABS pipes
- Shelving units
- Vinyl siding
Many plastic resin types are accepted, making the program accessible to a wide range of household and recreational items. However, not all plastic items qualify. Items with large, non-removable metal components, such as garbage totes with thick metal rods are considered garbage and cannot be accepted. Similarly, plastic containers that were used to store chemicals, including certain drums, are excluded from the program.
Gasoline containers, such as jerry cans, must be completely empty and free of fuel residue before drop-off. This ensures safety and prevents contamination of the material being processed.
Once dropped off, accepted rigid plastics are ground and blended with contaminated wood. This processed material is then used as cover at the active face of the landfill, helping to manage daily operations. The approach not only reduces the volume of waste being buried but also contributes to extending the landfill’s lifespan by conserving significant airspace. This new approach helps the CRD reduce the impact of waste, makes better use of materials and supports more efficient landfill operations.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this free service and to ensure items meet the acceptance criteria before dropping them off. For more details on what can and cannot be accepted, and to learn about proper disposal of other household items, visit 'What goes where'.
