Return-It Brings New Convenient and Contactless Recycling Solutions to Quesnel

Recycling just got more convenient in Quesnel. Residents can now drop off refundable beverage containers at a new Return-It Express & GO recycling station at the Extra Foods parking lot at 2335 Maple Drive.

“Return-It exists to foster a world where nothing is waste. I hope that we can inspire others to support our social purpose by bringing new and convenient recycling solutions to northern B.C.,” says Cindy Coutts, President and CEO of Return-It. “We are delighted to announce our new Express & GO station in Quesnel, which makes it even easier to support a commitment toward a true circular economy!”

Express & GO stations revolutionize the recycling experience by allowing people to drop off their unsorted, pre-bagged beverage containers and receive deposit refunds via Interac e-Transfer or cheque. Each station builds on Return-It’s mission to improve recovery rates by making recycling increasingly accessible and convenient for British Columbians.

“As a key hub providing services for the region, Quesnel is delighted to be the newest member of Return-It's Express & GO network and looks forward to the benefits this service will bring the community,” says Cariboo North MLA Coralee Oakes. “The new recycling station will support Quesnel's Integrated Community Sustainability Plan and help us all achieve the clean and healthy living environment we want to create for residents, through encouraging waste reduction. The new Express & GO station also provides people living in our region with the opportunity to support the local community by donating their beverage container refunds to registered charitable organization of their choice.”

The Express & GO model supports a growing need for innovative recycling infrastructure. Powered by solar energy, the station is housed within a brightly coloured and easy to access 20-foot repurposed shipping container. The station includes a printer, where individuals dropping off bags can print their labels, tag their bags, and complete the entire drop-off process in mere minutes. More details on the new station in Quesnel, including location hours, can be found Return-It Express & GO in Quesnel.

The opening of this new Express and GO is particularly exciting as this is the first of its kind in the Quesnel area. For nearby citizens, dropping off refundable beverage containers will now require less travel time and preparation. One of Return-It's ongoing goals is to fill gaps in its services, which involves the opening of new, convenient Express & GO locations such as this one.

While deposit refunds can be received via Interac e-Transfer or cheque, consumers also have the option to support their local community and donate their beverage container refunds to a charitable organization of their choice. A wide range of organizations have been using the Express system to support their fundraising efforts, especially during the pandemic. Once a fundraising organization has created its free online Express account, users can donate their deposit funds to specific charity and organization accounts of their choice when they drop off their empty containers at the Express & GO station. For more information on how charitable organizations can create an account and fundraise using Express, visit Return-It Express.