What to Do with Your Old Green Bin in Kitchener-Waterloo: Repurpose & Reuse Ideas
With the new green carts for organic waste rolling out across Waterloo Region in 2026, you might be wondering—what on earth are we supposed to do with our old green bins?
Good news: they won’t be picked up or recycled by the region, so it’s up to us to find new life for them—and honestly, they’re surprisingly useful once you get a little creative!
First Things First: Keep Using It Until the Switch
Don’t toss that bin too soon! You’ll still need to use your current green bin right up until March 2026, when the new cart-based collection begins.
Why Not Just Toss It?
Because:
The Region isn’t collecting old bins
They aren’t recyclable in curbside blue boxes
They’re super handy once you give them a second life!
You can check with your local EnviroDepot if you truly have no use for it, but we suggest giving repurposing a shot first. (Kitchener Waste Management)
Creative & Practical Ideas to Repurpose Your Green Bin
1. Garden Tool Tote
Keep your trowels, gloves, seeds, and watering can all in one place. Bonus: the vented lid helps with airflow, so nothing gets too musty!
2. Storage Bin for Car Supplies
Perfect for trunk storage—toss in your windshield washer fluid, jumper cables, scraper, and first aid kit. No sliding around when you drive!
3. Toy Chest for Outdoor Play
Holds sidewalk chalk, water balloons, toy trucks, or even pool noodles. Kid-friendly and weather-resistant!
4. Backyard Compost Bin (Mini Version)
Turn it into a DIY compost station for yard trimmings or a few veggie scraps. Just drill some holes in the bottom for drainage and voilà!
5. Firewood or Kindling Storage
Tuck it beside your firepit or wood stove—it’s just the right size to store small logs or dry kindling.
6. Salt & Sand Storage for Winter
Use it to hold de-icing salt for those slick winter mornings. Add a scoop and park it near your front door or garage for easy access.
7. Pet Supplies Container
Store bags of dog food, cat litter, or your collection of squeaky toys and tennis balls. Rodent-proof and easy to clean!
8. Garage Organizer
Paint it or label it to sort tools, cords, or bike gear. Stack a couple for a fun upcycled look.
What NOT to Do
Don’t leave it at the curb. Waste collection won’t pick up your old green bin.
Don’t toss it in the blue bin. They aren’t accepted in curbside recycling.
Don’t assume it’ll break down in landfill. These are built to last—so let’s help them live a long second life.
Community Tip: Share the Love
Don’t need yours? Consider:
Posting on Buy Nothing groups or Facebook Marketplace
Donating to community gardens or local schools
Checking with neighbours who might want an extra bin for garden tools or backyard storage
Your old green bin doesn’t have to become waste. With a little imagination (and maybe a scrub!), it can become a handy storage solution, backyard helper, or garage organizer. KW residents are nothing if not resourceful—so let’s turn this trash into treasure!