In 2024, four collection sites were added to the collection network, whilst fifteen 7 sites closed. All sites that closed were in areas serviced by other collection sites or collection events.
The program will review the accessibility study, the 2021 Statistics Canada Census Data and road networks and other relevant data and endeavor to return the program to an accessibility rate of 99.5% as soon as is practically possible. To address any gap areas, the Program constantly strives to partner and collaborate with existing collection networks where possible and seeks new opportunities to expand accessibility with willing partners. In communities where a permanent collection facility may not exist, the Program will continue to ensure access to recycling services is augmented through one-day collection events. In 2024, there were two areas that required access to collection services per the SABC accessibility standard that did not have a permanent collection site. Service to these areas was provided through four collection events. See Appendix C for a list of collection sites that opened and closed in 2024. OPEIC is required to report annually on government request for bulky access. OPEIC received no requests from local governments in 2024 for the collection of Bulky products. As mentioned above, both the regular and bulky stream combined in 2024, with all collection sites accepting both Program Products.
Collection Events
The collection system is further supported by the use of one-day collection events. From January 1 to December 31, 2024, 81 collection events were held.
The Program continues to collaborate with the First Nations Recycling Initiative (FNRI) to address service levels in First Nations communities and continues to offer direct pick-up services from large volume generators across the province. OPEIC is an annual supporter of FNRI, which seeks to bridge recycling accessibility gaps for First Nation communities throughout British Columbia and is supported by a team of nine stewardship organizations. Through a combination of in-person collection events and sponsorship of FNRI, OPEIC offered collection opportunities to 30 indigenous communities, at 30 events. These initiatives reached underserviced and remote communities such as Heiltsuk First Nation (Central Coast), Ahousaht First Nation (Western Vancouver Island), and the Malahat First Nation (Cowichan Valley). Table 2 lists the number of collection events by regional district.
7 Of the 15 sites that closed, 13 were bulky-only sites that did not transition to accepting regular products during the integration of the regular and bulky streams. No gaps were created, in accordance with SABC standards, as a result of these closures. These areas were serviced either by nearby communities or through collection events.
Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator