New Brunswick Bottle Depots Face Closure Amid Recycling Program Overhaul

Small communities in New Brunswick are bracing for the impact of significant changes to the province’s beverage container recycling program, which may result in the closure of several local bottle depots. David McCarthy, of the Eastern Recyclers Association, estimates six redemption centers are on the verge of shutting down as the program transitions to a new model that places full responsibility for container waste on the bottling companies, with Encorp acting as the administrator. This shift has raised concerns among depot operators about the viability of their businesses under the new service agreement set to commence on April 1.

Challenges Under the New Framework

Operators like Cathy DesRoches, who has run Caissie’s Recycling in Rogersville for 32 years, find the terms of the new agreement untenable. Requirements for facility upgrades, stringent cleanliness standards, and extended hours of operation pose significant challenges, particularly for small, independently operated depots. DesRoches’ decision to close her depot underscores the dilemma faced by similar operations across the province, threatening access to convenient recycling services for residents of smaller communities.

Impact on Communities and Operators

The reduction in the number of redemption centers, from 108 in 1992 to 69 today, highlights a trend that may accelerate under the new system. Encorp President and CEO Pierre Landry emphasizes the need for improved container return rates and consumer service standards, offering subsidies to assist smaller depots. However, the fear of becoming mere franchisees, along with the short notice for implementing changes, has left many operators feeling overwhelmed and undervalued.

Looking Ahead: Adaptation and Concerns

While Encorp introduces measures to ease the transition, including a simplified sorting system and technological upgrades, the future remains uncertain for New Brunswick’s recycling landscape. The potential loss of local redemption centers raises questions about the effectiveness of the new system in enhancing recycling rates while maintaining community access to recycling services. As stakeholders work to navigate these changes, the coming months will be critical in determining the sustainability of bottle recycling in the province.