The Nanaimo Recycling Exchange accepts a variety of materials for recycling.  We are constantly striving to help Nanaimo achieve the goal of Zero Waste.  Most materials are free to drop off, or a small fee applies if the cost of shipping to market is high.

Facts About Recycling

In May 2014 the new provincial recycling program was introduced. It is called Multi Materials BC and it has changed what you recycle curbside and what you now have to bring into the depot. For example plastic shopping bags, glass containers and styrofoam packaging all have to be recycled at the depot.

For more information on the MMBC recycling program please visit the website: http://recyclinginbc.ca/

The materials we collect are shipped to facilities where the items can be cleaned and processed so they are ready to be made into new items.  Where we ship our materials can change due to market fluctuations and new opportunities.  Recycling is still a relatively young industry and is constantly changing, improving, and sometimes experiencing challenges.  Accessibility to markets can be an issue on Vancouver Island – the amount we can get for a load of recyclable material sometimes doesn’t pay for its ferry trip, so we look for local alternatives.  We are fortunate to have better access to markets than people in northern BC, or the Prairie Provinces, for example. Please WASH & SQUASH your recyclables whenever possible.  Our staff and volunteers, who sort materials by hand, appreciate clean recycling that is sorted properly.

Unused/Expired Medications: Don’t Throw Them Out!

Medications may be returned to pharmacies in your area to prevent unsafe disposal and accidental ingestion of expired medication!