MONTREAL, March 1, 2026 - One year after the expansion of the deposit system to include all ready-to-drink plastic beverage containers ranging from 100 ml to 2 L, the Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association (QBCRA)/Consignaction is reporting a highly positive evaluation of this significant milestone in the province's modernization efforts. The expansion of the deposit system has seen a steady proliferation of return locations across Quebec, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Since the transformation of the deposit network began in April 2024, more than 750 million containers have been returned to various Consignaction return locations, including both Consignaction+ and Zone Consignaction sites. The inclusion of eligible plastic containers on March 1, 2025, acted as a catalyst, enhancing public engagement and participation in recycling initiatives throughout the province. Learn more on Investopedia.
"We are very encouraged by citizens' participation in the modernization of the deposit system. Surpassing the milestone of 750 million returned containers reflects genuine on-the-ground engagement and confirms that the model is becoming embedded in Quebecers' daily habits," said Normand Bisson, President and CEO of QBCRA/Consignaction.
Expanding Network Accessibility Across Quebec
The ongoing network expansion is a testament to the growing accessibility of the modernized deposit system. Currently, over 250 modernized return locations are operational, with 140 of these categorized as Consignaction and Consignaction+ sites. This strategic deployment continues to make the system more accessible to an increasing number of Quebec residents.
New return locations have been regularly inaugurated, including recent openings in cities such as Jonquière, Rivière-du-Loup, Sept-Îles, and Thetford Mines. The enhancements are not limited to new locations; existing facilities are also undergoing continuous improvements to ensure an efficient and user-friendly experience. This relentless pace of modernization represents a pivotal development in achieving the province's recycling goals.
High Satisfaction Rates Reflect Public Engagement
The modernized deposit system is designed with the citizen experience at its core, utilizing state-of-the-art infrastructure tailored to meet both current and future demands. An independent study conducted by AdHoc Recherche in January 2026 reveals that users report a high level of satisfaction with the return locations, indicating that the deployed model is resonating well with the public.
Feedback from users highlights the simplicity of the recycling process and the supportive assistance provided by staff at return locations. "The feedback we receive daily points in the same direction: people value the simplicity of the experience and the support provided by our teams at return locations. This shows that a well-structured, user-centered system can achieve its environmental objectives while delivering a level of service that meets citizens' expectations," Bisson added.
Environmental Impact and Future Prospects
The successful integration of plastic containers into Quebec's deposit system marks a significant shift towards enhancing the province's recycling framework. The initiative is not only contributing to environmental sustainability but also fostering a culture of recycling among citizens. The continuous influx of returned containers underscores a collective commitment to environmental stewardship.
As QBCRA/Consignaction pushes forward with its network deployments, the positive response from the community suggests that the modernization of the deposit system is firmly taking root in Quebec. With each new return location, the organization is not only expanding access but also reinforcing a shared responsibility towards recycling and waste reduction.
Looking ahead, the ongoing development of this modernized deposit system is expected to further increase participation rates, strengthen community engagement, and drive greater environmental impact. With the foundation laid over the past year, QBCRA/Consignaction is well-positioned to continue its mission of promoting sustainable practices across Quebec.
Originally reported by Benzinga. View original.