Alberta’s recycling system is undergoing a significant transformation with the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program, designed to shift recycling accountability from municipalities to product manufacturers. This province-wide initiative is expected to reduce landfill waste, improve recycling rates, and encourage more sustainable packaging solutions across industries.
Under the EPR program, producers are incentivized to design recyclable packaging and invest in better end-of-life disposal processes. While local collection methods remain unchanged, residents are urged to sort and prepare recyclables correctly to maximize the new system’s benefits. Proper sorting helps prevent contamination and ensures that materials like plastic, tin, and cardboard reach recycling markets instead of landfills.
To support these efforts, curbside bins are being updated with clearer labels, and educational outreach is expanding through seasonal programs and school resources. With accessible depots and a renewed focus on public awareness, Alberta’s new approach offers communities the tools to recycle more effectively and build a cleaner, more circular economy.
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