New Brunswick proposal to overhaul beverage container recycling program

The New Brunswick government is consulting on its proposal to transition its beverage container recycling program to an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program.

Specifically, the government has proposed changing the beverage container deposit formula, including a container recycling fee that would vary by material type, and possibly include alcohol and non-alcohol beverage containers in the same stewardship program.

The proposed program would harmonize with existing best practices (eg: British Columbia) with the ultimate goal of improving redemption rates across the province.

There seems to be general recognition among all stakeholders that the current program has reached its limits and thus, change needs to occur.

RCC continues to participate in these consultations on behalf of its members.