What's Happening in Calgary, AB…

Calgary needs new recycling drop off depots for empty beverage bottles, but is having a hard time finding communities willing to accept having one placed in their neighbourhood. City planners think they may have found the solution.

The plan is to use unmanned smaller ‘quick drop’ facilities where people can easily deposit their empties for recycling and be paid for doing so. It would be a cash free system, with a swipe card being used to record how much the person should be paid. They can then settle up their account at a later date.

The provincial depot agency is planning a test run of the new kiosk sometime next year. It will be the first of its kind in the province, though they are in use in several U.S. states, including Oregon. Organizers hope that these smaller sized depots will be an ideal choice for the downtown core, or any other area where something smaller than the larger sized version that is currently in use is desired. There are currently 23 depots in the city, and another six are needed to keep up with population growth.

During the city council’s December meeting, there will be discussion about changing some of the bylaws to allow for these new facilities.

The new structures will need to have adequate signage explaining what they are and how to use them. A printing company will be able to provide this.