Recycling rates in British Columbia reached a new high of 83.3% in 2024, up from 79.6% in 2023. Recycle BC attributes the rise to strong partnerships and improved recycling systems.
Residents across British Columbia are recycling more than ever, according to new data released by Recycle BC. The latest figures show the province’s recycling recovery rate rose to 83.3% in 2024. That’s a noticeable improvement from the 79.6% reported the year before.
Recycle BC, a not-for-profit group that manages residential recycling programs, shared the updated numbers this week. The organization oversees the collection and processing of packaging and paper from homes across the province.
In 2024, Recycle BC collected a total of 208,484 tonnes of recyclable material. That’s a rise from 201,033 tonnes collected in 2023. The increased volume reflects both better participation from households and improvements in how materials are sorted and processed.
Sam Baker, executive director of Recycle BC, said the success was due to ongoing investments and strong partnerships. “Ongoing investments and collaboration with our recycling network partners ensure high-quality material is sorted to industry-set specifications and marketed domestically as much as possible,” he explained.
The annual report highlights significant growth in paper recovery. In 2023, the recovery rate for paper was 83%. In 2024, it jumped to 92%. That nine-point increase marks one of the highest recycling gains in recent years.
Plastic recovery also improved, although at a slower pace. In 2023, the plastic recycling rate was 43%. In 2024, that rate edged up to 45%. While plastics continue to pose challenges in recycling, even small gains represent progress.
Recycle BC’s approach includes working closely with local governments, collection contractors, and processors to maintain high standards. The organization follows strict sorting guidelines that match industry demands, which helps ensure more materials are accepted and reused.
Another key part of the system is Recycle BC’s push to keep materials in Canada. Whenever possible, the organization tries to send recyclables to domestic processors. This strategy helps support local businesses and lowers the environmental impact linked to long-distance shipping.
The increase in recycling rates is seen as a positive step toward reducing landfill waste and protecting the environment. Recycle BC believes its model of extended producer responsibility (EPR) plays a key role. Under EPR, companies that create packaging are also responsible for funding and managing its end-of-life recycling.
This system creates a clear link between producers and the waste they generate. It also encourages better packaging design, which can lead to easier recycling and less waste overall.
In the years ahead, Recycle BC plans to keep improving its programs. The group aims to raise recovery rates even further by educating the public, adding more collection points, and using new technology for sorting.
British Columbia’s progress is drawing attention from other regions as well. The province is often seen as a leader in recycling, with one of the most advanced systems in North America. The latest report confirms that steady effort and collaboration can lead to real environmental gains.
Recycle BC encourages residents to continue separating their recyclables correctly and staying informed about changes to local collection rules. As recycling systems evolve, public participation remains a vital part of the process.
With continued support from households, industry, and local governments, British Columbia is on track to set even higher recycling records in the future.
