Extended Producer Responsibility Programs
Free recycling programs for special materials
What are EPR Programs?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs are industry-funded recycling systems where manufacturers take responsibility for managing their products at end-of-life. This means many items can be recycled for FREE at designated drop-off locations!
British Columbia has one of the most comprehensive EPR systems in North America, covering everything from electronics to paint to beverage containers.
EPR Programs Available in Abbotsford
Electronics & Appliances
Program: Return-It Electronics / ElectroRecycle
Accepts:
- • TVs, computers, monitors, laptops
- • Printers, scanners, keyboards, mice
- • Audio equipment, speakers
- • Small appliances (toasters, microwaves, etc.)
- • Power tools, vacuums
Where: Abbotsford Mission Recycling Depot, Regional Recycling, select retail stores
Beverage Containers
Program: Return-It (Encorp Pacific)
Accepts:
- • All beverage containers (glass, plastic, aluminum)
- • Milk and plant-based beverage cartons
- • Wine and liquor bottles
- • Juice boxes and tetra-paks
✓ Get your deposit back!
Where: Abbotsford Bottle Depot, Clearbrook Bottle Depot, Aberdeen Return-It, Regional Recycling
Paint & Coatings
Program: Product Care (Paint Recycling)
Accepts:
- • Leftover paint (latex, oil-based, spray paint)
- • Stains and varnishes
- • Paint thinners and solvents
- • Aerosol paints
⚠ Keep in original containers with labels
Where: Regional Recycling Abbotsford, Abbotsford Mission Recycling Depot
Batteries & Lights
Programs: Call2Recycle & LightRecycle
Accepts:
- • All household batteries (rechargeable & single-use)
- • Fluorescent tubes and CFLs
- • LED bulbs
- • Incandescent bulbs (some locations)
⚠ Never put in garbage - fire hazard!
Where: Most depots, hardware stores (Home Depot, London Drugs)
Packaging & Paper
Program: Recycle BC
Accepts:
- • Paper, cardboard, newspaper, magazines
- • Plastic containers, bottles, jugs
- • Metal food & beverage cans
- • Cartons (milk, juice, soup boxes)
- • Single-use plastics (straws, cutlery, cups)
✓ Most items go in your blue cart!
Where: Blue cart (curbside) or depot for foam & plastic bags
Used Oil & Antifreeze
Program: BC Used Oil Management Association
Accepts:
- • Motor oil, transmission fluid
- • Oil filters and containers
- • Antifreeze/coolant
- • Oil containers (empty or full)
Where: Some bottle depots, auto shops, Mission Recycling Depot (check first)
Hazardous Waste
Program: Product Care (Hazardous Waste)
Accepts:
- • Pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers
- • Gasoline, diesel, kerosene
- • Household cleaning chemicals
- • Fire extinguishers, propane tanks
⚠ Keep sealed & labeled!
Where: Regional Recycling Abbotsford, special collection events
Medications
Program: Health Products Stewardship Association
Accepts:
- • Prescription medications (expired or unused)
- • Over-the-counter medications
- • Natural health products
- • Inhalers, needles/sharps (in approved container)
Where: Any pharmacy (free, confidential drop-off)
Why EPR Programs Matter
Environmental Protection
Keeps hazardous materials out of landfills and recovers valuable resources
Free for Residents
Manufacturers fund these programs, so drop-off is free for you
Circular Economy
Materials are recycled into new products, reducing resource extraction
Not Sure Where Something Goes?
Use our Waste Wizard to search any item and find the right disposal method.
Search Waste Wizard