GUELPH, ON, May 26, 2011 /CNW/ - The Co-operators announced its support for Arctic Co-operatives Limited initiative to prevent 10 million aluminum cans from ending up in landfills or on the streets of Nunavut. The Co-operators will provide $40,000 over a two-year partnership with the service federation, which is establishing an aluminum recycling program in 23 communities in the territory.

An estimated 10 million cans are shipped annually into Nunavut, the only jurisdiction in Canada without an aluminum recycling program. Among the challenges facing such a program are the lack of a road network and the fact that cans must be transported out of the territory to be recycled. Arctic Co-ops has members operating throughout Nunavut that will work with local community groups to arrange for the collection and loading of the cans.

"Our network of member co-ops makes this program possible, but ultimately it will be a series of community efforts that will make it a success," said Andy Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of Arctic Co-operatives Limited. "Together, we will make for stronger, cleaner communities in Nunavut."

Interested local community groups such as non-profits, sport teams and youth groups, can apply to their local co-op board of directors to coordinate the program in their community as a fundraising endeavour. These groups will be responsible for organizing the community's effort and utilizing the co-op system's transportation network to take care of collection and loading. For each full shipping container collected, the groups will receive $1,500 to be put towards local community projects.

"This is a great example of the power of co-operation," said Kathy Bardswick, President and CEO of The Co-operators, which includes Arctic Co-op among its 45 member-owners. "Through the leadership of Arctic Co-op and its members, and with the support of local community groups, the people of Nunavut will have the opportunity to create a cleaner environment for future generations."

Other program partners include: Nunavut Sealink and Supply Inc., Arctic Beverages, Canadian North Airlines, and the Government of Nunavut.

About The Co-operators:

The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $40 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is ranked #2 among the 50 Best Corporate Citizens in Canada by Corporate Knights, and listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada. For more information visit www.cooperators.ca.