Frequently Asked Questions

General Return-It Milk Recycling Questions

Q: What types of milk containers can be returned?

All empty milk, cream, and milk substitute (soy and rice) beverage containers (plastic, cartons, and jugs) are included in this voluntary industry-run program. Cartons include both polycoated and paper board containers like tetra packs or aseptics and gable top cartons.

Because there is no deposit on milk containers, no refund is returned.

Q: Why is there no deposit/refund for milk containers like there is with beverage containers?

Milk containers are specifically excluded from the deposit/refund system by legislation. See the Recycling Regulation at http://www.bclaws.ca/EPLibraries/bclaws_new/document/ID/freeside/449_2004

Q: Why don't all Return-It depots accept milk containers?

The Return-It Milk program is voluntary (i.e. not required by legislation). Although many depots would like to offer this service for your convenience, regrettably, not all Return-It locations have the space or staff to handle the extra volume.

Q: Why should I take my milk containers to a depot when I can put them in the blue bin?

Many communities restrict which types of milk containers are accepted in their curbside collection programs. (For example, milk jugs but not cartons.) 

Otherwise, the choice is up to you. Return-It depots that voluntarily accept milk containers do so for your convenience – a one-stop location for all your container types. By returning milk containers to your local Return-It depot, you are supporting a local business in your community.

Q: Why do I need to clean and crush my milk containers?

Many people find the odor of unwashed milk containers to be more objectionable than other types of beverage containers. Washing them in advance helps your local Return-It operator maintain a clean and pleasant environment for all customers and staff.

Some depots have limited space for milk containers, so crushing them helps keep the storage requirements down, further assisting your local Return-It operator.