It is a privilege to step into the role of President & CEO at Encorp Atlantic and to have the opportunity to work closely with all of you — the dedicated operators of New Brunswick’s redemption centre (RC) network.
I would like to begin by thanking Pierre Landry for his many years of leadership and vision. His commitment to modernizing the Beverage Containers Program (BCP) laid the groundwork for the progress we’ve made together and the work still to come. I’m honoured to carry that legacy forward.
The positive impact of last year’s introduction of full refunds on beverage container deposits is clearly being felt. Increased returns from consumers helped us achieve a 76.6% used beverage containers (UBCs) recovery rate for all of 2024, and our current 12-month rolling rate now stands at an impressive 80.4%. These higher volumes are good news for RCs, and we recognize there’s still work ahead to push recovery rates even higher and deliver stronger environmental results.
We’re committed to building on this momentum — together. Our key priorities include making the Program more accessible and convenient for consumers, ensuring cost-effective delivery, and expanding public education and outreach. A major focus will be on growing special initiatives that boost recovery rates while also engaging and educating new and future recyclers. This includes reaching out to newcomers to the province and expanding the reach of our Recycling Heroes in School program, which is on track to hit an exciting milestone: 100 schools enrolled. By connecting with more New Brunswickers — especially younger generations — we’re helping foster lifelong recycling habits and strengthening a culture of sustainability across the province.
RCs remain the backbone of the BCP. Your insights, your collaboration, and your commitment on the front lines are essential to our shared success. I look forward to strengthening our collaboration in the months and years ahead.
