Changes are soon coming to how Vancouver residents are recycling their plastics.
This program will introduce a brand-new way for people to divide their recycling, as well as a new bin.
Recycle B.C.
Recycle B.C. is the non-profit responsible for “residential packing and paper product recycling” throughout the province. The organization services over two million households, or over 99% of B.C. through curbside, multi-family, and/or depot services. They “ensure packaging and paper product is collected from households and recycling depots, sorted and responsibly managed and recycled.”
Flexible Plastics
Introduced back in June 2, 2025, Recycle BC expanded their services to include curbside flexible plastic recycling, adding a new pink recycling bin for all flexible plastics.
Photo: Recycle BC
“This new permanent service follows a pilot program we conducted in West Vancouver between November 2021 and May 2022,” said Sam Baker, Executive Director, Recycle BC. “The pilot program was successful, providing valuable insight and information about the feasibility of collecting flexible plastics directly from homes. We heard great feedback from residents, and we’re thrilled to be able to offer the program permanently. This will make it easier for residents living in the District of West Vancouver to recycle flexible plastics, help us collect more of these materials, and keep more plastic out of the landfill. All flexible plastic collected will be recycled into resins for the creation of durable plastic products.”
This program only included households located in the District of West Vancouver. Now, it is being further expanded to Vancouver apartments and condos.
New Vancouver Recycling Program
According to Recycle BC, the organization will be transitioning Vancouver recycling collection for apartments and condos to two new contractors. The change will also allow for Vancouver residents to recycle flexible plastics by using a new pink cart, which will be arriving at their buildings in the coming weeks.
Recycling Alternative: Downtown and False Creek area (Area 1, Blue)
Emterra Environmental: All other areas in Vancouver (Area 2, Green)
Photo: Recycle BC
As for what flexible plastics are, Recycle BC notes that they are lightweight, soft plastics that can be crumpled or folded. This includes:
Plastic bags (for bread, produce, bulk foods)
Overwrap (for toilet paper, paper towels, beverage flats)
Stand‑up & zipper‑lock pouches (for granola, grains, dried fruit)
Crinkly wrappers & bags (cereal box liners, chip bags, pasta bags)
Packaging with plastic seals (for deli meats, sliced cheese)
Plastic net bags (for oranges, lemons, avocados, rice)
Bubble wrap & other protective packaging
The change will be introduced on February 16, 2026. Moreover, further information will be provided about the transition as the date approaches.
For more information, you can check out Recycle BC’s page here.
You Might Also Like
