Recycle BC introduces flexible plastics collection bins in Vancouver, expanding recycling access and supporting circular plastic waste management.
Recycle BC, a non-profit organization overseeing residential packaging and paper recycling programs in British Columbia, has officially launched flexible plastics recycling services for apartment and condominium buildings across Vancouver. Residents can now begin using the newly introduced pink carts designated specifically for flexible plastics, which have been placed in building recycling areas.
According to Sam Baker, Executive Director of Recycle BC, the rollout enables apartment and condo residents to conveniently recycle flexible plastic materials directly within their buildings. He noted that expanding collection services to more communities is a key step toward increasing recovery rates and diverting additional waste from landfills and the natural environment.
The organization is encouraging residents in multi-family housing to participate by placing approved flexible plastic materials into the pink carts. Collection will occur once a week, aligning with the existing recycling pickup schedule for other materials.
To ensure proper sorting, residents are advised to deposit clean and dry flexible plastics into the carts. Loose items should be gathered together inside a reused transparent plastic bag before disposal.
Flexible plastics generally include lightweight packaging that can be easily scrunched or folded. Examples include plastic shopping bags, outer packaging wraps, resealable and stand-up pouches, crinkly snack wrappers, packaging with plastic seals, mesh produce bags, bubble wrap, and other soft protective packaging materials.
Recycle BC clarified that recycling guidelines for other materials remain unchanged. Residents should continue using the standard recycling carts for mixed containers, paper and cardboard products, as well as glass bottles and jars.