Full Breakdown
Closure of Iqaluit's Only Beer Can Recycling Facility Sparks Community Action
11/22/2025, 9:09:53 AM
Impact of Northern Collectables' Closure
The closure of Northern Collectables, Iqaluit's sole beer can recycling facility, has significantly impacted the community since it ceased operations in July 2023 after 31 years. Derek Allerton, a local resident, has taken it upon himself to address the littering issue exacerbated by the facility's shutdown. He has collected over 4,000 beer cans, filling 28 bags, while walking his dog. Allerton emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about the recyclability of these cans, which can earn 15 cents each when returned to a recycling facility.
Challenges Faced by Northern Collectables
Northern Collectables announced its closure due to increasing difficulties in shipping containers for recycling, stating that the operational challenges had become insurmountable. In a Facebook post, the facility noted, “The effort we need to put is just getting harder to deal with every year.” The Government of Nunavut had previously purchased recycling services from Northern Collectables, but as of now, no alternative recycling service is available. Hala Duale, a communication specialist for the Department of Finance, confirmed that the government is prepared to purchase recycling services once they become available.
Community Response and Suggestions
In light of the closure, Allerton has called for a temporary recycling service to be established. He suggested that the community could benefit from a system where residents could return bags of cans for deposits on a limited schedule until a permanent solution is implemented. “I would really appreciate an interim measure,” he stated. The Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Commission has set aside funds from each aluminum can sold to support future recycling efforts, but the timeline for resuming services remains uncertain.
Official Statements on Recycling Services
Geoffrey Byrne, a spokesperson for the City of Iqaluit, clarified that the recycling refund program was managed by the territory and not the city. He directed inquiries regarding replacement facilities or timelines to the Government of Nunavut. Duale reiterated that any new recycling service would fall under municipal or private sector responsibilities, indicating a need for collaboration to address the recycling gap.
Criticism and Community Sentiment
The community's frustration is palpable, as many residents, including Allerton, feel the absence of a recycling facility has led to increased littering. Some locals have suggested creative alternatives for the collected cans, such as constructing an inukshuk or returning them to the legislature for resolution. Allerton continues his efforts to clean up the city, stating, “For now, I will keep picking up and get started on trash bag 29.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “Even in the small stretch we've walked, I've picked up almost 12 cans already in less than 500 metres,” — Derek Allerton, Local Resident
- “T he effort we need to put is just getting harder to deal with every year so I have decided not to continue with it any longer,” — Northern Collectables, Facebook Post
- “While city waste facilities do accept waste, including beverage containers, any questions regarding beverage container recycling, such as replacement facilities or timelines, should be directed to the government of Nunavut,” — Geoffrey Byrne, City of Iqaluit Spokesperson
The situation remains dynamic as the community awaits further developments regarding the establishment of a new recycling service.
