“But it has a triangle on it!”
This is a something recycling depot staff hear a lot. To borrow from Aristotle, a triangle does not a recyclable make, especially when it comes to plastics. Many manufacturers, to appear green, will print a triangle on their packaging even if facilities do not exist locally that take these materials. This is why when Bowen Recyclers come into the depot wondering if they can leave their plastic container that has a triangle on it they may be told that the particular type of plastic is not accepted at the Depot.
The Bowen Island Recycling Depot is bound by an organization called Recycle BC. Recycle BC is a non-profit organization responsible for residential packaging and printed paper recycling throughout British Columbia. If you want to get a better idea of what can and cannot be recycled in B.C. check out their site (https://recyclebc.ca/). It is really well laid out and is full of easy to access the information. The front page has great news and education articles. For example, did you know that as of September 1, 2017 you could take your Styrofoam to London Drugs to be recycled?
Let’s talk about what plastics we can take at the depot. There are two areas for plastic collection and that is because the Depot collects two types of plastics – plastic bags and overwrap and plastic packaging containers. These plastics are collected separately as they are recycled into different products, which is why it is really important to be familiar with what goes into these collections. Again, check out Recycle B.C.’s site.
Please do not leave old toothbrushes, deodorant containers, plastic hypodermic needles or tampon holders. These items are not recyclable and should be placed in your garbage. Just a reminder, your recycling should be clean!
So spend some time on the Recycle BC site. Remember, if you have any questions, the staff at the Depot are always happy to help!
