The RDEK’s newest transfer station receives used oil recycling infrastructure

The new recycling infrastructure will ensure the safe handling, collection and storage of used oil and antifreeze materials

Radium Transfer Station employees Liam Whalen (left) and Matt Leman (right). — Photo courtesy SOMA Public Relations

Interchange Recycling, the not-for-profit organization dedicated to the collection and recycling of used motor oil, oil filters, oil containers, used antifreeze and antifreeze containers in British Columbia, today announced that the Regional District of East Kootenay’s newest transfer station, Radium Hot Springs Transfer Station, located at 4755 Wastewater Treatment Plant Road, has received a new 20ft sea container with 2,200 liter tank and 2 drums for used oil collection and to store program materials.

“Expanding our collection network and making it easier for British Columbians to recycle used motor oil and automotive materials is key to keeping these products out of landfills,” said David Lawes, CEO, Interchange Recycling. “Once collected, the used oil is refined and repurposed, preventing the environmental harm improper disposal can cause. The Radium Hot Springs Transfer Station is strategically located to support nearby communities and make responsible recycling more convenient.”

Two decades of accessible, eco-friendly recycling

Formed in 2003 under the British Columbia Society Act, Interchange Recycling has provided British Columbians with a convenient, free, and eco-friendly way to recycle program materials for the past two decades. 99.6 percent of residents across the province currently have reasonable access to recycling locations.

“This improved infrastructure allows us to safely collect and store even more used oil, antifreeze, and related materials,” said Jim Penson, RDEK Solid Waste Superintendent. “This program has been a valuable resource for our community over the years, helping prevent improper disposal of hazardous materials. We’re proud to support efforts that protect our local environment and contribute to a cleaner, healthier community.”

In 2023, Interchange Recycling collected 49,823,206 litres of used oil in B.C., and awarded 12 infrastructure grants. Used oil is a valuable resource and if it is recycled at one of Interchange Recycling’s dedicated public recycling centres it can be recovered and reused. Used oil can be re-refined into new lubricating oil or material inputs for manufacturing or energy products. Additionally, used oil filters contain metal, which is recycled into metal products like rebar, nails, and wire. Used oil and antifreeze containers are recycled and used to manufacture new oil containers, drainage tiles, and parking curbs. Used antifreeze is refined and reused as new automotive antifreeze. A comprehensive listing of all the public recycling centres across B.C. can be found at https://interchangerecycling.com/find-a-recycling-centre.

For general information about Interchange Recycling, visit https://interchangerecycling.com/.

Interchange Recycling would like to acknowledge that their head office in Victoria is located on the traditional territory of the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations, and Coast Salish people.