Here’s the dirt on Gatineau’s new robotic waste collection

Changes are coming to waste collection in Gatineau, Que., that will see the process more automated and streamlined.

Starting at the end of this month, trucks equipped with a robotic arm will begin picking up garbage, recycling and compost bins across the city.

It’s part of the city’s response to an ongoing labour shortage, as only one operator will be needed to operate the arm.

The city also hopes the equipment will reduce delays in waste collection.

The city’s current garbage policy, which came into effect in September 2019, limits households to one 120-litre grey bin. Households can set out additional bags, but each extra bag costs 50 cents.

The policy hasn’t been without its critics, who’ve said the changes didn’t take into account individual circumstances.

Those additional bags will continue to be picked up under the new robotic arm program, as long as they are left at the curb at the same time as the grey bin on collection day.

Another truck will return the following day to pick them up, city officials told Radio-Canada. The change will be gradual, they said, while the public will get an opportunity to offer feedback.

“The service we are proposing to implement really responds to citizens’ requests to improve the collection of compost, waste and recycling,” Mitigomijokan Coun. Anik Des Marais told Radio-Canada in French.

The City of Gatineau says residents must place their garbage bins at the curb, with at least 60 centimeters of space on either side. (CBC)

To ensure their waste is collected, the city asks that residents place their waste in bins that:

• Have their wheels facing the residence.

• Have their lid closed and unlocked;

• Are free from obstructions in front and within 60 centimetres on either side.

• Are sorted according to the material they contain. Green waste must be in bins marked with a ‘V,’ and recycling in bins marked with an ‘R.’

Bulky items and metal will also be able to be collected at the same time, but households must register on the city’s website beforehand.