The success of Recycle BC relies on the collaboration and support of our partners and service providers. The Blue Star Awards recognize the partners and service providers who go above and beyond — demonstrating leadership, innovation, collaboration, and a strong commitment to advancing recycling across the system.
Innovation Award: Akane Norimatsu of the Regional District of Central Kootenay
The Regional District of Central Kootenay operates 12 depot locations across a large geographic area and created an internal portal to better connect them, enabling staff to share information, ask questions and receive updates while maintaining consistency across the system. Integrated with the post-collection system, the portal allows staff to log daily updates on material volumes, container supply and operations, helping service providers anticipate needs in advance, improve scheduling, reduce disruptions, and keep depots running smoothly. This strengthens communication between depot staff, service providers and Recycle BC to support efficiency and continuous improvement.
Trust Award: Annie Schlamp and the Team at Do Your Part Recycling
Annie and her team exemplify trust and professionalism through their strong commitment to the communities they serve, including Indigenous communities, the City of Terrace, and the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine. Despite the challenges of operating in Northern regions, they continue to deliver reliable service through experience and strong partnerships. Known for building relationships grounded in transparency and respect, Annie’s team is also deeply engaged locally, supporting schools and community outreach. Marking 20 years of service is a testament to the trust and leadership they’ve built.
Knowledge Award: Tsal’alh First Nation
Since partnering with Recycle BC in 2014, Tsal’alh First Nation has been instrumental in shaping the program through ongoing collaboration and shared learning. Together, Recycle BC and Tsal’alh First Nation worked through challenges and applied those insights to improve how services are delivered. Tsal’alh First Nations leadership has helped develop a consolidation model that better connects community needs with regional systems, improving access to recycling in partnership with the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District—demonstrating how local knowledge and collaboration can drive more inclusive, effective solutions.
Service Award: GFL North Vancouver
This year’s Service Award recognizes a team that works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. Through atmospheric rivers, wildfires and a global pandemic, GFL North Vancouver have consistently ensured materials are moved and marketed reliably, maintaining continuity across the system. Their flexibility and strong partnership have also supported the evolution of the post-collection network—making the GFL Environmental North Vancouver office a deserving recipient of this recognition.
Integrity Award: Regional District of Central Okanagan
RDCO has been a reliable and collaborative partner over the past year on direct service transition planning. They’ve shown a strong commitment to their community, Recycle BC, and their service providers, helping ensure a smooth and thoughtful process. Their experience in administering collection services has brought consistency and clarity throughout, with special thanks to Cynthia Coates, Supervisor of Solid Waste Services, for her trusted and dependable partnership.
Congratulations to all the award winners for their exemplary dedication and support. These are the values that guide our program and strengthen our network.