New Glass Recycling Program Launching In January 2025 In Port Coquitlam

News

The City of Port Coquitlam is pleased to announce the launch of a new glass recycling program, commencing in January 2025. This initiative supports Council’s commitment to advancing waste management services and reducing contamination in recycling.

Starting next year, curbside glass collection will be available for households with City waste collection services. Residents are encouraged to recycle non-refundable glass jars and bottles using the designated grey bin provided. Simply remove the lids and set the grey bin out on the scheduled collection day.

“We are excited to announce that starting in 2025, glass recycling will be integrated into our regular curbside collection program, marking a significant improvement in waste management services,” said Mayor Brad West. “This new service reflects Council’s commitment to enhancing core city services by making waste management more efficient and environmentally friendly, reducing the need for separate trips to depots, and providing greater convenience for residents.”

Grey recycling bins will be distributed to all residents who receive City waste services beginning the week of November 12 and wrapping up by the end of December. The bins will include the 2025 Sort it Right guide which also includes the pickup schedule, guidelines and a message from Council. Recycled glass is used to create new glass bottles, sandblasting materials, and construction aggregate here in BC. Glass can be recycled endlessly without any loss in purity or quality, making it a great circular economy material. Learn more at portcoquitlam.ca/glass.

“We are proud to enhance our waste management services by introducing curbside glass collection,” said Cllr. Darrell Penner, council designate for Public Works and Transportation. “This program not only simplifies recycling for residents but also reinforces our commitment to sustainability and a greener future.”

To ensure successful recycling, it is essential that residents follow the new guidelines:

How to Recycle Glass Jars and Bottles:

  • Remove lids from glass containers and empty them completely. Rinse the containers to remove any residue.
  • Place the clean glass jars and bottles in the grey bin.
  • Dispose of the lids in the regular recycling cart.
  • Refundable glass containers must be taken to a designated depot for proper processing.

It is important to note that certain items will not be accepted in the grey bin, as they can cause contamination. Contamination not only hinders the recycling process but also results in fines that are passed on to taxpayers. A complete list of acceptable glass items is available on the City’s website at portcoquitlam.ca/glass.

Resources

The Sort it Right! program provides a variety of user-friendly resources and tools, including:

  • Sort & Report app – search for how to properly sort waste, create personalized collection schedules and alerts, report problems and more. Download for free at portcoquitlam.ca/sortreport.
  • Sort it Right! online search tool – learn how to properly dispose of items at portcoquitlam.ca/sortitright.
  • Sort it Right! Waste Sorting & Services guide – a user-friendly guide with detailed collection and sorting information. Pick up the latest from City facilities or download from portcoquitlam.ca/sortitright.
  • Community Calendar and Waste Collection Schedule. Delivered to doorsteps or available at City facilities each December.
  • In-person support – Contact 604-927-5496 or drop by Public Works, 1737 Broadway St. to speak to a staff member and pick up resources.
  • Other online resources – portcoquitlam.ca/waste for a variety of information about the green cart program, recycling program and depots, and more.

Residents are encouraged to go to portcoquitlam.ca/sortitright for a wide variety of waste-sorting information.

For more information on tips, schedules and more visit portcoquitlam.ca/glass.

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Person holding up grey glass recycling bin inside with glass jars inside