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Part of Waste reduction and recycling programs

Extended Producer Responsibility

Simpler recycling for more Albertans while encouraging businesses to reduce waste.

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Waste reduction and recycling programs

Overview

Alberta’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system makes recycling more accessible and consistent across Alberta while shifting recycling costs from municipalities to businesses. 

EPR is overseen by the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA). 

Learn more how EPR works.

Benefits for Albertans

Lower recycling costs

Under EPR, producers cover the costs municipalities previously paid to recycle residential products and packaging. Savings vary by municipality and may take time to appear on utility bills. 

Accessible and more consistent

Recycling services

As of October 1, 2026, recycling services for the same materials are available for more Alberta communities, including some apartments, condos and multi-family homes.

The way those materials are collected may differ by community, either through curbside collection or a recycling depot.

Service timelines for apartments and condos may vary by building and existing collection contracts. Residents should check with their building management or service provider for details. 

If you have questions about these services, contact ARMA.

More recyclable materials 

For a province-wide list of accepted materials, including foam packaging, flexible plastic packaging, aerosol containers and laminated paper and plastic packaging, visit Circular Materials.

About EPR

Alberta's EPR system covers thousands of residential products through 2 main systems:

  • Single-use products, packaging and printed paper products (PPP)
    • paper, including newspapers, packaging, cardboard
    • plastics
    • metal and glass
  • Hazardous and special products (HSP)
    • flammable, corrosive and toxic consumer products
    • batteries
    • pesticides

More information on these materials is available on the ARMA website.

EPR timeline

Alberta’s EPR system launched on April 1, 2025 and was implemented in phases. The final phase took effect on October 1, 2026, completing Alberta’s transition to a producer-funded residential recycling system.

  • EPR Phase 1 – First intake

    Included more than 90% of Albertans for single use products and hazardous and special products. 

    April 1, 2025
  • EPR Phase 1.5 – Second intake

    Expanded single use product recycling to more communities.

    July 1, 2025
  • EPR Phase 2 - Final phase

    On October 1, 2026, expanded access to single use product recycling for about 97% of Albertans.

    October 1, 2026

More information

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Contact

Connect with the Waste Policy Section:

Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 310-3773 (in Alberta)
Toll free in Canada: 1-877-944-0313
International: 780-944-0313
Email: [email protected]

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