Frequently asked questions

Government sets the rules and regulations for waste reduction and diversion in New Brunswick.

The Department of the Environment administers the Clean Environment Act. Under the Act, the Minister has the power to designate materials to be managed. To date the Minister has designated tires, paint, electronics, and oil and glycol.

Recycle NB is the board that oversees waste reduction programs for government. It approves industry-developed waste management plans and sets a level-playing field for industry by establishing standards and ensuring that they apply to all producers. Recycle NB administers the used oil and glycol recycling program and ensures that it complies with the regulations.

Used oil and glycol are among the most important sources of recyclable liquid waste in New Brunswick. These products are dangerous to our environment. They can contaminate our water and soil and take up space in landfills. By properly recycling and disposing of these products, we can protect our environment and reduce the amount of waste in our landfills. When recycled, these products may be used repeatedly.

Used oil has long been used as a source of energy for commercial and industrial consumers. Oil and diesel fuel filters are made mostly of metal. Therefore, any remaining fluid is drained from them. Then, they are crushed and sent to a steel mill for recycling.

Using a multi-step process, the glycol is cleaned and, depending on the additives, the new coolant is then ready for sale to commercial and industrial consumers.

Containers for oil and glycol are made of high-quality plastic. They are collected, cleaned, decontaminated and recycled into new containers and other products.

One litre of used oil could contaminate one million litres of water. By recycling used oil and glycol products, New Brunswickers do their part to help to protect our environment.

Industry is responsible for the oil and glycol recycling program. UOMA manages the program for industry. It deals with the manufacture, storage, collection, transportation, recycling and disposal of these products.

The oil and glycol management program is industry-led and financed. Industry covers the costs of manufacture, storage, collection, transportation, recycling and disposal of these products. UOMA manages the plan on behalf of industry. Funding for the program comes from fees paid to the non-profit organization by its industry members. Industry may either absorb the cost or pass it on to the consumer in the price of its products.