Québec enters second phase of deposit modernization system
The steps are part of a vision to collect five billion containers annually, with a recovery rate target of 90% by 2032
Phase 2 of the modernization and expansion of the deposit-refund system designed by The Québec Beverage Container Recycling Association (QBCRA) and Consignaction will take effect on March 1, 2025. Moving into the next phase, all ready-to-drink plastic beverage containers from 100 ml to 2 L will now be subject to a 10-cent deposit. Québec is leading by example and using concrete methods to make progress in waste reduction, reuse, and recycling.
Creating an accessible deposit system in Québec
This second phase of expansion will assist in the modernization of the deposit-return system, following the first phase in November 2023. The steps are part of a vision to collect five billion containers annually, with a recovery rate target of 90 percent by 2032.
This new measure simplifies and standardizes the deposit-return system, allowing residents to return even more beverage containers and take action to help the environment. All types of ready-to-drink plastic beverage containers from 100 ml to 2 L — including water bottles, sparkling water, milk, juice, soft drinks, and even some spirit bottles — can now be returned for a refund of the deposit paid with the purchase.
Province wide network transformation
On March 1, 2025, residents will have access to over 3,500 return sites across Québec. This hybrid network includes Zone Consignaction return points at participating retailers and Consignaction and Consignaction+ return sites, dedicated exclusively to collecting deposit-bearing beverage containers. Nearly 50 Consignaction and Consignaction+ return sites have already opened across Québec.
- Zone Consignaction return points: Located in participating retail stores, these return points are equipped with automated reverse vending machines for individual container returns. Refunds are available in cash.
- Consignaction return sites: Store-style facilities for citizens, equipped with automated reverse vending machines for individual returns, as well as an express return service allowing citizens to drop off clear bags of unsorted containers. Refunds can be issued in cash for individual returns or securely through the Consignaction mobile app for both individual returns and express returns.
- Consignaction+ return sites: Designed for residents, institutions, businesses, and commercial enterprises, these sites offer a bulk return option for large quantities of unsorted containers, in addition to the standard services. High-performance equipment ensures fast and efficient counting and processing. Refunds can be issued in cash or securely through the Consignaction mobile app.
To facilitate returns, all return sites are easily accessible and located on popular shopping routes. Additionally, return sites are designed to accommodate individuals with reduced mobility.
"Starting March 1st, residents will benefit from an exceptional and innovative network that will make it easier to adopt eco-friendly habits by returning and recovering deposit-bearing beverage containers. We are proud to continue deploying this network with determination and enthusiasm over the coming months, gradually adding more Consignaction and Consignaction+ return sites," said Normand Bisson, president and CEO of the QBCRA and Consignaction.
