How Appliance Recycling Works in British Columbia

Monday, June 24, 2024

Known for its landscape and beauty British Columbia stands out as a beacon of sustainability, particularly in the progressive landscape of environmental conservation. As consumers become increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint, understanding the intricacies of large appliance recycling in BC becomes increasingly important. In this guide, we delve into the workings of the BC recycling market, shed light on the benefits of appliance recycling, and explore additional recycling services available to residents.

How Are Large Appliances Recycled?

Recycling large appliances involves several intricate steps to ensure proper handling of materials, especially those containing Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS). Here's an overview of the process:

Drop-off

Large appliances that are accepted can be dropped off at designated Large Appliance Recycling locations for free.

Sorting

At the recycling center, appliances are sorted into two main categories.

ODS Appliances

These include full-size refrigerators, compact refrigerators, freezers, window air conditioners, portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and electric cold beverage dispensers.

Non-ODS Appliances

These include clothes washers, ranges, built-in ovens, surface cooking units, food waste disposers, electric hot beverage dispensers, clothes dryers, range hoods, downdrafts, built-in and over-the-range microwave ovens, dishwashers, and trash compactors.

ODS Gas Removal

For ODS appliances, a professional certified technician removes the ODS gas to prevent environmental contamination. This gas is then sent to specialized facilities for ODS recycling and processing.

Scrap Metal Recycling

After the ODS gas is safely removed, all appliances, whether ODS or non-ODS, are sent to scrap metal recyclers.

Independent Processing

ODS Recycling/Processing

The extracted ODS gas is processed and recycled separately to ensure it does not harm the environment.

Scrap Metal Recycling

Appliances are melted down, and purified to be reused in manufacturing new products.

By following these steps, the recycling process ensures that large appliances are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner, with hazardous substances safely managed and valuable materials efficiently recycled.

Benefits of Appliance Recycling in BC

The benefits of appliance recycling extend far beyond waste reduction. By diverting appliances from landfills, BC residents contribute to resource conservation, energy savings, and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Appliance recycling in BC saves significant amounts of energy and raw materials each year, mitigating the environmental impact of manufacturing new products. Learn more about the benefits of recycling your old appliances.

Resources Saved through Recycling in BC

Every year, Large Appliance Recycling by MARR, in collaboration with other product stewardship programs across BC, recovers 425 million kilograms of materials for recycling and responsible management. In 2023, Large Appliance Recycling by MARR collected and recycled 405,758 large appliances for safe disposal and recycling.

The BC Recycling Market

British Columbia boasts a well-established recycling infrastructure, with dedicated facilities and programs aimed at diverting waste from landfills. The province's commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its comprehensive approach to recycling.

Additional Recycling Services in BC

There are numerous ways to recycle and reuse products. Donating items in working condition to thrift stores is a great option, you also check if the store you purchased from offers a take-back program.

It's not just large appliances that can be recycled—many other items can be too. For more information on how to recycle and contribute to a greener future, refer to the recycling agencies listed below in BC.