Recycle BC to include aluminium foils and single-use plastics in its blue box programme

A not-for-profit organisation based in British Columbia, Recycle BC is increasing its range of materials for the residential blue box programme organised by the community. According to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the new range will include items like aluminium foil baking dishes and pie plates, aluminium foil and thin gauge metal storage tins, plastic cutlery and straws.

Single-use plastics are cited as some of the most typical objects discovered on British Columbian coasts. According to the ministry, newly allowed products, such as plastic sandwich bags, party cups, bowls, and plates, are often discarded after a single use.

"This expanded materials list will allow more material to be recycled, keep it out of landfills and stop it from littering the environment. Residents play a key role in recycling this material by enabling it to be collected, by putting it into their bins or taking materials to a depot," said Recycle BC executive director Tamara Burns.

In addition to mattresses, electric vehicle batteries, and medical sharps, including needles and lancets, B.C. wants to add these items to its producer responsibility collection and recycling requirements over the next four years, according to the ministry.