Guidance on beverage container deductions for Blue Box producer supply reporting
*On May 22, 2026, this latest news post was updated to reflect the revised reporting guidance document.
In September 2025, the Government of Ontario made amendments to the Blue Box Regulation which included the removal of the “away from home” requirement for beverage containers.
As a result of this amendment, producers are responsible only for the beverage containers supplied to residential consumers. This means that producers can deduct the amount of beverage containers they supplied to locations such as offices, restaurants and hospitals from their annual supply report beginning this year.
How do I calculate the beverage container deduction for my 2026 supply report?
To reduce undue burden, RPRA’s Registrar will allow Blue Box producers to use existing methodologies to calculate their deductions in 2026. This interim direction is detailed in Reporting Guidance: Ineligible Source Deductions.
Producers who are eligible to deduct beverage containers based on the changes to the “away from home” requirement can use one of the following methods:
| Option A | Option B |
|---|---|
| Producers who previously claimed a 2021 Stewardship Ontario deduction can calculate their 2026 deductions using the same methodology. Producers using this method must use the Ineligible Source Deduction Form to calculate their deductions when reporting their 2026 supply weight. | Producers claiming new deductions can use data from an audit or sales analysis completed within the last 5 years. These producers must provide RPRA with the details of the methodology used. |
How will RPRA know which option I selected?
If you claim beverage container deductions, you must upload either a completed Ineligible Source Deduction Form (Option A) or documentation outlining your own methodology (Option B) when completing your 2026 supply report.
Can I select Option B if I claimed a 2021 Stewardship Ontario deduction?
Yes, you may select Option B to calculate your beverage container deductions even if you claimed a 2021 Stewardship Ontario deduction.
How will RPRA validate data?
RPRA’s Compliance and Registry Team may conduct inspections by asking producers to provide proof of their reported deductions. Producers must retain all records of calculations and methodologies used to determine any reported supply deductions.
Will these options be used to determine supply data deductions going forward?
No, the options outlined above will only be available for 2026 supply reporting.
Later this year, RPRA will conduct a study to determine the final methodology for deductions. We will reach out to all registrants, Blue Box industry associations and interested parties by email to notify them of the opportunity to participate in the consultation to develop the deductions methodology.
Have another question?
Contact our Compliance and Registry Team at [email protected] or 1-833-600-0530.