Recycle BC, the producer-funded programme for packaging and paper, collects containers and paper from the kerb and accepts flexible plastics (bags, pouches, wrap) and foam at depots or flexible-only bins. Return-It (Encorp Pacific, a federally incorporated not-for-profit) refunds a flat 10 cents on all beverage containers at depots and express drop-offs. Most containers also carry a small recycling fee that is not refunded, for example 7 cents on a plastic bottle (since 1 February 2025).
Honest caveat: Recycle BC says the plastic it collected in 2025 went to recyclers in British Columbia and none was burned for fuel, but that is its own report. It also collected only 23% of the soft plastic packaging (bags, pouches and wrap) sold in the province, against a target of 50% by 2027 (Recycle BC 2025 annual report). Deposit containers are the cleanest stream.
How to start: recyclebc.ca/what-can-i-recycle/ and return-it.ca/beverage/products/