A Year in Review: Stewardship, Performance, Accessibility, Partnerships

Edmonton, AB – Today, Alberta’s Beverage Container Management Board (BCMB) announces the release of its 2024 Annual Report, reflecting a year of significant change and strategic progress for Alberta’s beverage container recycling system.  

This report marks the first year under BCMB’s Board Chair, Loren Falkenberg, and the organization’s recently added President and CEO, Mark Emsden. 

Read the full 2024 Annual Report 

"The past year has brought both challenges and opportunities, requiring constant agility," stated Loren Falkenberg.  

"As BCMB embraces a new chapter, we are committed to strengthening our regulatory oversight whilst cutting red tape, fostering greater transparency, and ensuring the most efficient system for all Albertans. The Board is dedicated to the highest standards of governance, driving continuous improvement and reaffirming our commitment to a circular economy." 

The 2024 Annual Report highlights BCMB’s dedication to a leading and sustainable recycling system, particularly in adapting to evolving consumer expectations, demographics, and the growing emphasis on plastics recycling and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).  

Key achievements include: 

  • Financial Stewardship: Continued progress with the Handling Commission Review has delivered significant cost savings for the BCMB and its stakeholders. The overall net system cost declined slightly in 2024 to $0.0304 per container from $0.0384 per container in 2023. 
  • System Performance and Standards: The 2024 return rate of 83.1% is the highest in Canada and second highest in North America. 
  • Rural Accessibility: A strong focus on innovative solutions to ensure accessible and convenient recycling options for all Albertans, especially in rural communities, including the successful Depot Siting Project. 
  • Strengthening Partnerships: Collaborating closely with industry stakeholders, municipalities, and other partners to ensure a coordinated and collaborative approach to system improvement. 

Falkenberg emphasized the opportunities presented by new beverage choices and technological advancements. "We are exploring alternative collection methods by leveraging Canadian innovations in sorting and reprocessing to unlock new paths for recycled materials. The future of recycling in Alberta depends on how the system stakeholders seize these opportunities collaboratively." 

The BCMB extends its sincere appreciation to all Board Directors, staff, and industry stakeholders for their hard work and dedication.  

About the BCMB 

Beverage Container Management Board (BCMB) oversees Alberta’s beverage container recycling system, responsible for developing, implementing, and enforcing policies and by-laws that ensure efficient and effective collection and recycling across the province. 

Contact 
media@bcmb.ab.ca  

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BCMB regulates and enhances a leading and sustainable beverage container system that protects Alberta’s environment.