In a unique move to celebrate environmental sustainability, The Beer Store has announced a temporary increase in its deposit return rates across Ontario. This initiative is timed specifically to mark Earth Day, which falls on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. For one day only, consumers who bring their eligible alcohol containers to participating locations will receive a significant bonus on their standard returns. This Beer Store empty container returns promotion is designed to encourage residents to participate in one of the province’s most successful recycling systems, which currently boasts recovery rates as high as 89 per cent for refillable bottles.
The temporary rate change will see The Beer Store paying 20 per cent more on deposit returns for the duration of Earth Day. This means that containers that typically hold a 10-cent or 20-cent value will see a proportional increase. Specifically, products with a standard 10-cent deposit—such as bottles between 100 ml and 630 ml, and cans between 100 ml and 1 litre—will yield a higher return. Likewise, larger containers, including bottles greater than 630 ml and cans exceeding 1 litre that usually carry a 20-cent value, are included in the 20 per cent bonus. It is important to note that kegs are excluded from this specific Earth Day offer.
By offering a financial incentive, the company aims to “keep materials in the loop” and support the circular economy. The Beer Store takes back all forms of alcohol packaging, ensuring that every can, bottle, and even secondary packaging brought in by the public is reintegrated into the recycling cycle. Officials noted in a recent social media post that these efforts are critical for maintaining high recovery standards and reducing the environmental footprint of the beverage industry. This Beer Store empty container returns event serves as a call to action for residents in Durham Region to clear out their storage spaces and contribute to a greener province.
For residents in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, and Pickering, participating in this one-day event is straightforward. Consumers can visit the official Beer Store website to find a map of participating return locations within their local community. The company emphasizes that while the 20 per cent increase is a temporary celebration for Earth Day, the habit of returning empties should be a year-round commitment to sustainability. As the province continues to focus on waste reduction, initiatives like this provide a tangible reward for environmentally conscious behavior.
Whether you are a casual consumer or have been saving containers for a spring cleanup, April 22 offers the best value of the year for your recyclables. The Beer Store empty container returns program remains a cornerstone of Ontario’s environmental strategy, and this Earth Day bonus is a “thank you” to the millions of Ontarians who keep the system running. Residents are encouraged to check their local store hours and prepare their empties in advance to take full advantage of the increased payout this Wednesday.
