The Great Green Bin Glow-Up

Everything has a purpose, even our old green bins!

On July 1, 2025, Kingston will begin transitioning to an automated cart-based waste collection system for garbage and organics. This is a phased transition, with select neighbourhoods in Kingston receiving carts as part of the first phase. The full cart collection transition is expected to take several years, with most neighbourhoods using carts by 2030. Learn more about the transition!

As part of the rollout, households in the first transition phase are currently receiving new, bigger green carts for organics. We know many residents still have their old green bins, and while we can’t pick them up, we’re inviting the community to get creative! Instead of tossing them or letting them gather dust, why not find a new purpose for your old bin?

That’s why the City is running the Great Green Bin Glow-Up contest, a chance to share your ideas and win a prize!

We’re looking for creativity and innovation. Create your invention and submit it by Wednesday, July 9 at 4 p.m.. The biggest standout as selected by the Public Works and Solid Waste team will win a City of Kingston prize package!

How to submit your idea

• Enter your submission below using the Ideas tool.
• Submit your ideas by email.
• To request an alternate format to sharing your ideas, contact us.

This contest is open to anyone in the city with a great green bin idea, not just residents who have received their new cart.

We're looking forward to seeing all your great ideas! Have fun and let your imagination run wild!