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 220+ privately owned depots and work to ensure their long-term success and sustainability within Alberta’s beverage container recycling system.

What We Do

Whether we’re helping a rural operator upgrade their facility or advocating for system-wide policy improvements, our focus stays the same: supporting the people who make the most of Alberta’s empties and ensuring the system works for everyone else.

  • Ensures the voices of depot operators are heard and respected

  • Provides guidance, tools and information to support day-to-day operations

  • Works closely with regulators, policymakers and industry to shape a stable and effective system

  • Promotes industry best practices and innovation

  • Represents depot operators in negotiations and system planning

  • Showcases the impact of depots in communities and across the province

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

224 depots across 160 communities mean 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.