Montreal, February 2025 - The Association québécoise de récupération des contenants de boissons (AQRCB)/Consignaction is pleased to announce that phase 2 of the modernization and expansion of the deposit-refund system will come into effect on March, 2025, marking a major turning point for environmental protection in Quebec. With this expansion, all ready-to-drink plastic beverage containers, from 100 ml to 2 liters, will henceforth be deposit-refundable, and Quebec will thus contribute to waste reduction, reuse and recycling, making our province an example to follow.

A Modern and Accessible Deposit System 

This expansion marks a significant step in the modernization of the deposit system, which began in 2022. It is part of an ambitious vision aimed at recovering five billion containers annually, with a target recovery rate of 90% by 2032.

For citizens, this new measure simplifies and standardizes the deposit system, allowing them to return even more containers and take concrete action for the environment. All types of plastic ready-to-drink beverage containers—including water bottles, sparkling water, milk, juice, soft drinks, and even certain spirit bottles—can now be returned for a refund of the deposit fee paid at purchase.

This major project was not without its challenges, but with determination and perseverance, we were able to rise to the challenge, thanks in particular to the extraordinarily dedicated employees ofQBCRA all our partners who work tirelessly to provide Quebec with a deposit-refund and sustainable deposit-refund system. We can be proud, collectively, of what has been accomplished. We are not only working for today, but for future generations, by putting in place a modern and efficient system that will make Quebec a model to follow in the coming years," said Normand Bisson, President and CEO ofQBCRA.

This progress is part of a broader transformation that, by 2027, will include the addition of glass and multi-layer cartons (e.g., wine bottles and milk cartons), further solidifying a deposit system at the forefront of international best practices.

Network Transformation

With the modernization of the deposit-refund system, the network of return sites is evolving. The system is gradually shifting from a retailer-based return model to a hybrid model that includes Consignaction and Consignaction+ locations, exclusively dedicated to the return of deposit-bearing beverage containers, as well as Zone Consignaction return points at participating retailers.

- Zone Consignaction: Return points located within participating retailers, equipped with automated return machines for individual returns. Refunds can be issued in cash.

- Consignaction: Boutique-style spaces designed for citizens, featuring next-generation automated return machines for individual returns, as well as an express return service allowing the deposit of unsorted bags of containers. Refunds can be issued in cash or via secure electronic transfer through the Consignaction mobile app.

- Consignaction+: Designed for citizens, institutions, businesses, and commercial establishments, these locations offer, in addition to previous services, a bulk return option for very large quantities of unsorted containers. High-performance equipment allows for rapid sorting and counting, ensuring increased efficiency. Refunds can be issued in cash or via secure electronic transfer through the Consignaction mobile app.

All these return sites are easily accessible and designed to fit seamlessly into citizens' usual shopping routes. Moreover, they are accessible to individuals with reduced mobility, ensuring inclusivity for all. The map of return locations is available at www.consignaction.ca/carte-des-lieux-de-retour/

"In just a few months, we have transformed a reliable, high-performance network covering the entire redeemable containers recovery cycle, from return to recycling. This major operation required us to conclude strategic agreements with key partners in packaging, recovery, transport and handling of returned products. At the same time, we are deploying state-of-the-art equipment, guaranteeing optimized processing, while facilitating the experience of citizens. Thanks to these efforts, Quebec is now a leader in the responsible management of returnable beverage containers," added Normand Bisson.

To ensure the success of this new phase,QBCRA has implemented support initiatives for citizens and partners in the deposit-refund system. An advertising campaign began on January 13, 2025, informing the public about the new beverage containers that will be introduced on March¹, 2025. Several digital tools, including frequently asked questions and explanatory fact sheets, have been updated and published online on theQBCRA website in recent weeks, with more to come to ensure a smooth and efficient transition for everyone.

Québec is ready to meet this environmental challenge. From March 1, 2025, every gesture will count even more towards a sustainable future!

About Consignaction and the Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association

Since 2001, programs branded with the Consignaction name have promoted beverage-container recovery to citizens and companies. Consignaction is the official emblem for promoting the activities of the Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association (QBCRA) to the public and stakeholders. The QBCRA is the designated management body (DMB) for the development, implementation, financing and management of the modernized deposit-refund system, in line with the principle of extended producer responsibility (EPR). Its members are the various beverage producers involved in the recovery, reuse, recycling and reclamation of beverage containers in Quebec. For more information, visit www.consignaction.ca.

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Source: Association québécoise de récupération des contenants de boissons (AQRCB)

For more information :

Elisabeth Larocque-de Freitas

Imperium Stratégies

(514) 652-6887

[email protected]