Remove caps, straws and garbage
Caps, straws and other debris must be removed before containers are returned to the Green Depot. It matters because:
- The repeated strain of removing hundreds of caps every day can cause a health and safety issue for staff.
- During processing, containers are compacted into large cubes, called bales. If caps are left on, air build-up inside containers can cause problems in the baling process.
- Caps and straws are made of a different type of plastic than containers. Bales containing mixed plastic are lower quality and of lower market value.
- Containers with garbage, liquid or debris are considered contaminated and cannot be recycled. Always ensure your containers are empty, especially from any safety hazards such as needles or sharp objects.
Empty all liquid
Empty your containers of all leftover liquids and rinse them out. Containers that aren’t rinsed can cause many issues, and may be rejected.
Do not remove labels
Green Depot operators and staff must be able to clearly identify containers to ensure they are included in the Beverage Container Recycling Program. For this reason, labels should be left on your containers, wherever possible.
Do not crush cans
Crushed or flattened containers are difficult to identify and count and cause problems in processing. And because more of them fit in bulk bags, they can make those bags too heavy to for Green Depot staff to lift safely.
Ensure bottles are not broken
Broken glass bottles are not accepted and creates a health and safety issue for the people who sort your recyclables.
Beverage containers that are not prepared properly may not be accepted at the Green Deport for a refund. Remember—not all beverage containers are accepted at Green Depots. Learn What’s Not Accepted (and why).