Missed previous editions? Check out the answers to previous recycling questions here.

Edition #4: Glass containers

Which glass containers are recyclable at our hospitals and residential care sites?

Empty food and beverage glass containers go into the Mixed Containers recycling bin. Note: at some sites this is the Rigid Plastics, Dairy and Tin bin. If the beverage glass is refundable (for example, a coke bottle or pop can), it can be placed into the Refundable Beverage Containers recycling bin where available.

Why can’t I recycle empty medicine vials, chemical bottles or specimen slides?

Our recycling vendor doesn’t accept these waste glass items for the following reasons:

· Unlike food and beverage glass, these glass items aren’t all the same which makes sorting more difficult and increases the likelihood of breakage.

· There is low market demand for this type of glass.

· They’re perceived to be contaminated and therefore considered a health and safety hazard for recycling staff.

Place your empty medicine vials, chemical bottles or specimen slides in the garbage.

What should I do if my unit generates a lot of empty medicine vials, chemical bottles or specimen slides?

Safety is important when disposing of large amounts of glass because it is both heavy and fragile. Consult the resource: How to dispose of waste glass in our facilities ? on the GreenCare site for how to correctly set up a glass only bin.

Read this story and more like it here.

Send us your questions!

Unsure what can and can’t be recycled and why? Or do you have an inspiring recycling story from your unit? Send an email to Sonja.janousek@fraserhealth.ca. We’ll include your question in a future edition of Ask Sonja and Helen, or contact you directly.