Glass recycling resumes at Central Okanagan depots

Collection of glass will resume at all depots in the Recycle BC program in the Central Okanagan on Monday, Dec. 20, but Styrofoam collection (both white and coloured) is still on hold.

The change is being made due to transportation challenges in some areas starting to ease and the primary end market for glass no longer under evacuation order.

“Due to the unprecedented flooding and resulting road closures throughout B.C., collection of glass and Styrofoam at depots had to be suspended on November 22, at all local depot locations,” said a news release from the Regional District of Central Okanagan. “With transportation corridors compromised due to road closures, Recycle BC could not move these materials from receiving facilities to end markets in the Lower Mainland. Residents were encouraged to keep glass and Styrofoam stored safely at home until full depot service resumed.”

In addition to the resumption of glass collection, residents can still take paper, cardboard, containers (plastic and metal), plastic bags and overwrap, and other flexible plastic packaging to depots. These are materials that can be baled and stored in a more compact manner at receiving facilities.

“We are hopeful residents can continue to appreciate the exceptional circumstances we are experiencing in the province and thank everyone for helping ensure all materials can eventually be managed responsibly,” said Travis Kendel, Manager of Engineering with the RDCO.

Kendel adds for now, normal curbside recyclable collection continues, but we’d like to remind recyclers that glass and foam packaging should not be added to the carts.

Recycle BC indicated the situation is evolving. It is unknown at this time how long this change will be required. Additional measures may be needed in the coming days/weeks if shipping issues continue longer term. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Recycle BC is responsible for residential packaging and paper recycling in B.C. The Regional District of Central Okanagan delivers residential recycling services to residents in the region under contract with Recycle BC. This includes curbside collection in the City of Kelowna, City of West Kelowna, District of Lake Country, District of Peachland and two electoral areas within the Regional District as well as regional depots at the landfill and various transfer stations.