Quebec Grocery Stores Phase Out Bottle Deposit Machines: Discover Why
The landscape of bottle deposit returns in Quebec is undergoing significant changes as grocery stores phase out deposit machines. This move, initiated by Consignaction, aims to modernize the province’s deposit-refund system.
Phase-Out of Bottle Deposit Machines
Consignaction’s vice president of strategy, Jean-François Lefort, announced that the bottle and can deposit machines will be removed as new sorting centers are established. This transition aligns with their strategy to enhance efficiency within the deposit-refund framework.
Concerns from the Public
Despite these updates, some community members express concerns over accessibility. Marc-André Bahl from Montreal voiced his worries that people may find it inconvenient to travel to sorting centers just to return a few containers. He remarked that the previous system provided a user-friendly experience that may be lost.
Marica Vazquez Tagliero, co-founder of Les Valoristes Co-op, emphasizes that removing machines could create challenges for individuals reliant on these returns for income. She shared that accessibility is key, particularly for those carrying bags of containers.
Goals for the Future
Consignaction aims to increase the recovery rate of beverage containers to 90% by 2032, equating to roughly five billion containers per year. The current recovery rate stands at four billion, an increase from 2.5 billion when modernizing efforts began two and a half years ago.
Rationale Behind New Sorting Centers
Lefort explained that grocery stores may not have the capacity to handle the expanded system. The establishment of dedicated sorting centers is crucial for simplifying the deposit-return process.
These centers will offer various services, including:
- Single-unit returns with automated reclaimers
- Bulk deposits of larger quantities of unsorted containers
- Express returns using the Consignaction app
The express return feature allows users to register their bags, place a sticker on them, and drop them off, enabling refunds within 60 seconds.
Transition Period and Future Developments
As this transition takes effect, staff will be available at the sorting centers to guide users through the new process. The final phase of this transition is slated for completion by next spring, when Quebec residents will be able to return all glass containers and multi-layer cartons for refunds.
Overall, while the modernization of the bottle deposit system in Quebec aims for improved efficiency, community feedback highlights the importance of maintaining accessibility for all residents.
