Recycle BC Issues Statement Regarding Material Collection Suspension

Update:

December 17, 2022

We continue to implement a phased collection restart plan for glass bottles and jars and foam packaging. We are pleased that we are now able to resume collection of glass bottles and jars province-wide.

  • Collection of glass bottles and jars from curbside and multi-family in Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley and Vancouver Island resumed December 13.
  • Collection of glass bottles and jars from curbside and multi-family in all other areas of BC (as applicable) resumes December 20.
  • Collection of glass bottles and jars from depots resumes December 20.
  • Collection of foam packaging from depots remains temporarily suspended

November 22, 2021

Recycle BC has released the following statement outlining temporary changes to its recycling programs.

“The flooding some regions of BC are experiencing is unprecedented. Our hearts are with everyone affected. We hope everyone stays safe.

Due to the unprecedented flooding event, we are making a temporary change to collection of some Recycle BC materials. Starting Monday, November 22 we are:

  • Suspending collection of non-deposit glass bottles and jars and foam packaging (white and coloured) from Recycle BC depots.
  • Suspending collection of all glass bottles and jars from curbside and multi-family

Please do not take these materials to a depot or set out for curbside or multi-family collection. If possible, hold on to your glass and foam packaging and set out or drop off later, once collection of these materials resumes.

With transportation corridors compromised due to road closures, and our primary glass end market currently under water, we cannot move glass from receiving facilities to our glass end markets. In addition, the flooding has affected the availability of trucks for hauling materials, further compounding these challenges.

At this time, we will continue to collect and receive paper, cardboard, containers and soft plastics – materials that can be baled and stored at receiving facilities in a more compact manner. Managing materials responsibly continues to be a priority for us. We will work with all partners to ensure we handle all materials as effectively as possible during this emergency.

The situation is evolving rapidly, so we do not yet know how long this change will be required. We will provide updates as we have more information.

To view the news release from the Regional District of North Okanagan click here.