Since 1 January 2025, the modernisation of selective collection, led by Éco Entreprises Québec (ÉEQ), has brought a number of important changes. Some of these have raised questions, particularly about the materials accepted in the blue bin. Here are some details to help you better understand the new sorting rules.
Materials accepted in the blue bin
- Plastics numbered 1 to 7: All these plastics, as well as those without a number, can now be placed in the blue bin.
- Food-grade polystyrene: Food-grade polystyrene containers and packaging (e.g. trays used for meat or fish, coffee cups, etc.) are now accepted in the blue bin.
Although these materials will be accepted, it will still be possible to drop them off at an ecocentre during the transition period in 2025.
Important exception: polystyrene used for protective packaging
Rigid or expanded polystyrene, often called Styrofoam, used as a protective material in the packaging of furniture, electronic appliances or other products, is not accepted in the blue bin. Unlike food-grade polystyrene, this material breaks up easily into small balls that can contaminate other recyclable materials.
Where can I dispose of Styrofoam?
Styrofoam should be taken to an ecocentre for appropriate treatment.
Find an ecocentre nearby
To see a map of ecocentres in Montreal, click here.
Read our news on Modernising selective collection
