About Us
About ABCRC
As one of the largest common collection systems for beverage containers in Canada, ABCRC continues to be a convener, collaborator and connector for Alberta’s beverage container recycling sector. We help recycle more than 150,000 different types of regulated, non-refillable beverage containers sold in Alberta; by identifying viable end markets and industries, we ensure that those recycled beverage containers are processed into something new.
Our Mandate
There are more than 220 independently owned Bottle Depots throughout Alberta that collect beverage containers from consumers and refund the deposits. Alberta Beverage Container Recycling Corporation (ABCRC) operates under not-for-profit provisions as the agent for beverage manufacturers in Alberta to collect, transport, process and recycle those beverage containers.
- Operate a common collection system for registered containers.
- Be responsible for recycling used, non-refillable beverage containers.
- Comply with the Beverage Container Recycling Regulation and Beverage Container Management Board (BCMB) bylaws.
- Promote the economic and efficient collection of non-refillable beverage containers.
Our History
In the early 1970’s, the disposal of single-serve beverage containers had led to a litter problem. As a result, non-refillable beverage container stewardship began in 1972 under the Litter Act (Alberta). The Beverage Container Recycling Regulation was also created at that time in Alberta, requiring manufacturers to be responsible for their empty containers.
In 1993, the government consolidated a number of pieces of legislation into the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA), which led to the evolution of the Beverage Container Recycling Regulation (referred to as the “Regulation”) as it is currently in force today. The revised Regulation required manufacturers using regulated non-refillable beverage containers to appoint a common collection system agent to operate the collection system; this, in-turn, led to the formation of ABCRC, with its duty to recycle used beverage containers in Alberta.
Since the appointment of ABCRC as the collection system agent, the focus on protecting Alberta’s environment has intensified. In response, ABCRC has continually adapted and expanded. Not only are we operating what is now the largest beverage container collection system in Canada, based on the number of material types collected and the quantity of beverage containers recovered, but we are also helping Alberta municipalities and the Provincial government meet their waste diversion goals.
Our Objectives
As an eco-conscious corporation for since 1995, ABCRC continually strives to reduce its own environmental footprint by operating in an environmentally conscious manner that exceeds what is required under the Regulation.
ABCRC operates based on several guiding principles:
- Ensure high standards of transparency and accountability.
- Promote and encourage beverage container recovery.
- Ensure each container type (material/size) is self-funding.
- Minimize the cost of beverage container recycling.
- Strive for continuous improvement in operations.
- Maintain a safe and healthy environment for employees.
- Provide a culture of honesty and integrity.