About the ABDA
Who We Are
The Alberta Bottle Depot Association (ABDA) is the trusted advocate and steadfast supporter of Alberta’s Depot network. We represent the interests of over 200 privately-owned bottle depots and work to ensure their long-term success and sustainability within Alberta’s beverage container recycling system.
Mission & Vision
Mission: Supporting a successful and viable Depot network for Albertans.
Vision: An innovative and sustainable network of recycling depots delivering world-class environmental, social, and economic benefits to their communities.
What We Do
Ensure the voices of Depot operators are heard and understood
Provide guidance, tools and information to support day-to-day operations
Work closely with regulators, policymakers and industry to shape a stable and effective system
Promote industry-leading practices and innovation
Represent Depot operators in negotiations and system planning
Showcase the impact of Depots in communities and across the province
Whether we’re helping an operator improve their operations or advocating for system-wide improvements, our focus stays the same: supporting Depot owners, operators, and their employees to have the supports, information, and resources they need to be able to provide exceptional service to Albertans.
Why It Matters
Depots do far more than recycle bottles. They deliver real, everyday impact across Alberta by:
Creating Local Jobs
Nearly 1,200 Albertans earn a living through Depot work.
Reducing Waste & Pollution
With an 85% return rate, Depots keep millions of containers out of landfills.
Supporting Grassroots Fundraising
Depots help Albertans raise over $30 million a year for local teams, clubs, charities and causes.
Keeping Communities Clean
Over 200 Depots across more than 160 communities means fewer bottles in streets, parks and shared spaces.
ABDA exists to protect and amplify those benefits—by helping Alberta’s Depots thrive today and stay strong for tomorrow.
The ABDA is the recognized voice of Depots in Alberta. We work in collaboration with our industry stakeholders as part of the beverage container recycling system. Learn more about stakeholders:
Alberta Beverage Container Recycling Corporation (ABCRC) - acts as the collection system agent for non-refillable containers.
https://www.abcrc.com/about-us/about-abcrc/
Beverage Container Management Board (BCMB) - responsible for regulating the beverage container recycling system.
https://www.bcmb.ab.ca/about/
Alberta Beer Container Corporation (ABCC) - collection service provider for refillable beer containers.