From today,

plastic drink containers are returnable! 

Phase 2 of the modernization of the deposit-refund

 

MONTREAL, March1, 2025 – The Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association (QBCRA)/Consignaction reminds consumers that Phase 2 of the deposit-refund system modernization and expansion comes into effect today, March1. All ready-to-drink plastic beverage containers, from 100 ml to 2 L, are now subject to a 10-cent deposit: bottles of water, sparkling water, milk, juice, soft drinks, and even certain bottles of spirits. Quebec will thus contribute to waste reduction, reuse, and recycling, making our province an example to follow.

"With more than a billion plastic beverage containers added to the deposit-refund system, the civic-minded act of returning plastic bottles will have a real and very positive impact on our environmental footprint," said Normand Bisson, President and CEO ofQBCRA.

 

A Modern and Accessible Deposit System 

This second phase of enlargement constitutes a key phase in the modernization of the system of deposit-refund It is part of an ambitious vision to deposit five billion containers each year, with a recovery rate target of 90% by 2032.

"The modernization of the deposit-refund a major fundamental change for Quebec, enabling us to significantly improve the recovery, reuse, and recycling of beverage containers. By focusing on sorting at source, we are promoting better quality materials, which is essential for ensuring efficient and high-value recycling. This vast undertaking is the result of a long-term effort that reflects the collective desire to build a more circular and sustainable economy for Quebec," said Emmanuelle Géhin, President and CEO of RECYC-QUÉBEC.

 

Network Transformation 

As of today, citizens will have access to over 3,500 return sites across Quebec. This hybrid network includes Zone Consignaction return points at participating retailers, and Consignaction and Consignaction+ return sites , reserved exclusively for the recovery of returnable beverage containers. Nearly 50 Consignaction and Consignaction+ return sites have opened across Quebec. Consult the map of return sites : www.consignaction.ca/carte-des-lieux-de-retour/

 

Quebec is ready to take on this environmental challenge!

 

About Consignaction and the Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association 

Since 2001, Consignaction programs have been promoting recycling among citizens and businesses. Consignaction is the official brand used to promote the activities of the Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association (QBCRA) to the general public and stakeholders.QBCRA the designated management organization responsible for developing, implementing, financing, and managing the deposit-refund system based on the principle of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). It brings together beverage producers involved in the recovery, reuse, recycling, and recovery of beverage containers in Quebec. For more information, www.consignaction.ca.

 

For more details, see the information sheets in theInformation Documentssection at the following link: https://consignaction.ca/a-propos/salle-de-presse/

 

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SOURCES:

– The Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association (QBCRA)

– Consignaction

 

Information: Elisabeth Larocque-de Freitas, (514) 652-6887, [email protected]