On June 1, 2018, Recycle BC introduced a pilot project to collect a new type of material: Other Flexible Plastic Packaging.
Other Flexible Plastic Packaging is one of the fastest growing packaging types on the market and the largest category of packaging that previously wasn’t collected by Recycle BC.
This material is collected at Recycle BC depots and London Drugs locations around the province. Collection of Other Flexible Plastic Packaging is part of a research and development project to determine how we can best recycle this material. During this time, the majority of the material will be recovered and produced into engineered fuel, an engineered energy product that is a direct replacement for traditional non-renewable resources, such as coal.
Other Flexible Plastic Packaging are types of film and flexible plastics that often include multiple layers of different types of plastic, making it more difficult to recycle. Examples of Other Flexible Plastic Packaging include: stand-up and zipper lock pouches, like pouches for granola, frozen berries, etc.; crinkly wrappers and bags, like coffee bags, or chip bags; flexible packaging with plastic seal, like packaging for fresh pasta or pre-packaged deli meats; non-food protective wrap like bubble wrap or plastic envelopes; and net bags for onions, avocados, lemons, etc.
For more information please see the frequently asked questions below.