Recycling Revolution: Victoria and Ucluelet Embrace Sustainable Initiatives
In a significant step towards environmental sustainability, Victoria and Ucluelet are taking the lead in recycling efforts, with the introduction of new infrastructure for collecting motor oil and antifreeze. This development not only simplifies the disposal of hazardous materials for residents but also underscores a broader commitment to reducing environmental impacts across the province.
The West Coast Landfill in Ucluelet and GFL Environmental (Ellice Recycling) in Victoria have recently undergone infrastructure upgrades, enabling them to store and recycle used motor oil, oil filters, oil containers, used antifreeze, and automotive containers. These upgrades are part of a larger initiative by Interchange Recycling, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to making hazardous waste disposal more convenient and environmentally friendly.
Interchange Recycling's director of operations, Jenn Robson, emphasizes the importance of these upgrades, stating, 'The latest infrastructure upgrades at GFL Environmental (Ellice Recycling) & West Coast Landfill demonstrate our commitment to making it easier and more convenient for BC residents to drop off used motor oil and other accepted materials.'
The new infrastructure at GFL Environmental (Ellice Recycling) in Victoria includes a 2,200-litre tank for used oil, a 1,000-litre Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) tote for antifreeze, and an open drum for filters. This facility is now open for drop-offs from Monday to Friday at 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on weekends from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., located at 524 David Street.
In Ucluelet, the West Coast Landfill has received a 20-foot container with a 2,200-litre tank, a container for antifreeze, and two 50-gallon drums for filters. This location is now the second in Ucluelet to work with Interchange Recycling, joining Columbia Fuels / Eagle Marine.
Tanya Carothers, solid waste manager at the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, expressed enthusiasm for the new infrastructure, saying, 'We are pleased to announce this new infrastructure at West Coast Landfill for the collection of used motor oil, antifreeze, oil filters, and accepted containers for our community members.'
The initiative extends beyond infrastructure upgrades. Interchange Recycling ambassadors will be present at the Victoria Farmers Market this weekend, engaging with the public and seeking feedback on reducing environmental impacts. The market, located at Sir James Douglas School and Porter Park, will be a hub for environmental awareness and responsible recycling practices.
The recycling program's impact is significant. In 2024, Interchange Recycling collected 47.7 million litres of used oil in B.C. and was awarded six infrastructure grants. The organization's goal is to provide all British Columbians with a convenient, free, and eco-friendly way to recycle program materials, with 99.4% of residents currently having reasonable access to recycling locations.
The repurposing of hazardous materials is a key aspect of this initiative. Used oil can be refined into new lubricating oil or used as an input for manufacturing and energy products. Oil filters are processed for their metal content, recycled into products like rebar, nails, and wire. Used oil and antifreeze containers are recycled into new containers, drainage tiles, and parking curbs, while used antifreeze is refined and reused as new automotive antifreeze.
This recycling revolution in Victoria and Ucluelet is a testament to the power of community-driven sustainability initiatives. By making hazardous waste disposal more accessible and environmentally friendly, these efforts contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for the province.
