from grease to green: the eco-friendly journey of used cooking oil
Heather Brown
— January 22, 2025
· 5 min read
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In the bustling kitchens of restaurants, schools, healthcare facilities, and retail establishments, Used Cooking Oil (UCO) is an inevitable byproduct. Often viewed as waste, UCO holds tremendous untapped potential when managed effectively. At Waste Solutions Canada, we help our clients turn this “waste” into a valuable resource through our Used Cooking Oil Collection Services, ensuring sustainability and profitability go hand in hand.
Why Used Cooking Oil is a Hot Commodity
Used cooking oil is not just waste; it’s liquid gold in the world of waste management. Thanks to its versatility and high demand, UCO is a key ingredient in producing biofuels like biodiesel, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Its wide-ranging applications extend to cosmetics, animal feed, and industrial lubricants, offering a unique opportunity to participate in the circular economy.
This high value has made UCO a target for theft. Thieves siphon this resource from collection bins, robbing businesses of the rebates they could earn through legitimate collection programs. This is why it is critical for a successful UCO program to take theft prevention into account.
At Waste Solutions Canada, we partner with reliable suppliers who implement theft-protection measures, such as tamper-proof containers and monitoring systems, to safeguard this asset. Our clients can rest easy knowing their used cooking oil is secure and put to its best use—supporting the circular economy.
Turning Waste Into Wealth with Rebates
The most exciting aspect of used cooking oil collection is its ability to generate revenue from waste.
Here’s how it works:
Collection: Our trusted network of suppliers collect UCO from your facility using specialized containers designed for safety and efficiency.
Processing: The oil is transported to processing facilities where it’s refined and repurposed.
Rebate: You receive a competitive rebate based on the volume and quality of the oil collected.