The Update and Action Plan on the Single-Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy was approved by Toronto City Council on December 15, 2023.

 

The City is moving forward into Stage 2 of the Reduction Strategy. A staff report was approved by Toronto City Council on December 15, including the adoption of the Single-Use and Takeaway Items Bylaw which comes into effect March 1, 2024.

Under the bylaw a retail business establishment is required to:

  • Ask-First/By-Request
    • Prior to distributing a single-use accessory food item, either (i) ask a customer if they need the item, (ii) have a customer request the item, or (iii) make the item available to customers in a self-serve station.
    • Prior to distributing a single-use paper shopping bag, either (i) ask a customer if they need the bag or (ii) have a customer request the bag.
  • Accepting the use of Reusable Items
    • Accept the use of reusable shopping bags and beverage cups by customers.
  • Compatibility
    • Only distribute single-use paper shopping bags to their customers that are compatible with the City’s waste diversion programs.

The City is committed to helping retail business establishments comply with the bylaw through targeted education and outreach activities.

Single-Use and Takeaway Items Reduction Strategy and Bylaw

Learn about the initiatives the City has implemented to reduce single-use and takeaway items including the bylaw that takes effect on March 1, 2024.

Ways to Reduce Single-Use

Learn why it's important and simple ways to reduce single-use and takeaway items.

Resources for Businesses Reducing Single-Use and Takeaway Items

Find resources to help transition away from single-use and takeaway items to reusable alternatives, including small signs and posters to display in your business.

Directory of Businesses Reducing Single-Use and Takeaway Items

A directory for residents to find businesses that are taking action to reduce single-use and takeaway items within their operations.

Directory of Service Providers for Businesses Reducing Single-Use and Takeaway Items

A directory for businesses to find service providers that can help them reduce their use of single-use and takeaway items.

Case Studies

Find examples of small businesses or organizations in Toronto that have successfully reduced their use of single-use items or helped businesses replace these items with reusable alternatives.