Top 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Bottle Recycling

Sorting Out The Facts

You might feel like recycling is a small act but we think it’s a pretty noble one. Gone are the days of sticky floors and smelly rooms. We’ve taken the recycling process to all new heights of professionalism and cleanliness but there might be a few of you out there who aren’t on the up and up. There’s a whole new way to recycle and give back to this beautiful planet we all share. So, here are ten things you didn’t know about bottle recycling in Calgary.

1. Did you know that recycled bottles can become more than just new bottles? Yep, they can transform into polyester fibers used in things like clothing, carpeting, grocery bags, and even high-end furniture. Your recycled bottle might end up as a stylish new shirt or a cozy rug under your feet.
2. Recycling a single plastic bottle saves enough energy to power a 60-watt light bulb for up to six hours. That means your small act of recycling can help keep the lights on – literally!
3. Every ton of plastic bottles recycled can save 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide. This is equivalent to the carbon sequestered by 25 tree seedlings grown for ten years. So, bringing your bottles to us can help combat climate change.
4. Canada generates about 3 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with only 9% being recycled. Properly recycling bottles can significantly reduce the volume of waste that ends up in landfills, freeing up space and reducing environmental contamination.
5. Recycling isn’t just good for the environment; it’s good for the economy! The recycling industry creates jobs in collection, sorting, and processing. By recycling your bottles, you’re supporting a thriving industry that employs thousands of Canadians.
6. Alberta’s beverage container deposit system is a success story in itself, with an impressive return rate of over 85%! Each returned bottle earns you a small deposit back, making it a win-win for your wallet and the environment.
7. Teaching kids about recycling can have long-term positive effects. We engage with local youth to educate young minds about the importance of recycling, ensuring the next generation is even more environmentally conscious.
8. While it’s not mandatory to rinse your bottles before recycling, it’s highly recommended. Clean bottles ensure better quality in the recycling process and reduce the chance of attracting pests during storage.
9. Recycling bottles is a key part of the circular economy, where waste is minimized, and materials are continuously repurposed. This model contrasts with the traditional linear economy of “make, use, dispose,” leading to a more sustainable future.
10. Recycling initiatives foster a sense of community. Regular recycling runs can be a social activity, encouraging neighborhoods to collectively reduce their environmental footprint.

Don’t think of us as just a regular recycling facility, we’re much more and our space is a community hub for fostering environmental responsibility and sustainability. By recycling, we contribute to a healthier planet, conserve resources, and support the local economy. Every bottle counts toward a brighter, better, greener tomorrow! Can’t wait to see you soon!