The City of Halifax wants to reduce the amount of waste piling up at the landfill and hopes that the use of clear garbage bags will help them to achieve their goal.
“It costs at least $20 million to open, build, and close a landfill site and we do that about every three and a half years,” says Halifax councillor Jennifer Watts.
However, some residents say that they are not keen on using clear bags that will show just what is in their trash.
The new rules allow residents to use one black garbage bag, providing a privacy bag.
“I think it should definitely go that route as long as one private bag is allowed, anything to reduce the garbage would be great,” says resident Kathy Smith.
Tuesday night, city council made further changes to the proposed by-laws. The maximum number of bags will no longer be reduced.
“Therefore the people who do generate the garbage won't be penalized for it and if the majority of us aren't putting out six bags, than if it is not broke, why fix it?” says Halifax councillor David Hendsbee.
The city says if the clear bags become mandatory there will be time for residents to transition.
“We will ensure that there is significant public education before any of the changes go in to affect,” says Tiffany Chase, Halifax Regional Municipality.
Council will vote in the New Year on whether the changes will take effect.
Residents could be using clear bags as early as the spring.
