What is EPR?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) shifts the cost of recycling materials like single-use products, packaging and paper products (PPP), and hazardous and special products (HSP) away from municipalities and taxpayers to the producers and manufacturers who supply those products into the marketplace.
Who is managing the program?
EPR is operated and managed by the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA), following the provincial government's initiative. The Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) in Alberta is Circular Materials
What does this mean for residents?
Residential recycling material disposal, for single family homes, will switch from depot service to curbside service. Being part of the first phase of the EPR program transition, changes will occur in late 2026. Multi-family facilities will continue to use their building operated recycling or the depot.
What material is considered to be acceptable?
PPP - Single-use products, packaging and paper products.
- Paper products: newspapers, packaging, cardboard, printed paper, and magazines
- Plastics: rigid and flexible
- Metal & Glass
What is not included in the EPR collection?
Material from industrial, commercial and institutional sectors.
To avoid duplicating requirements, PPP materials regulated under existing regulated stewardship programs (beverage containers, electronics, paint, tires, and used oil materials) are not included in EPR PPP.
What about Hazardous and Special Products (HSP)?
The Household Hazardous Waste program was replaced and updated by the province in 2025. The program, HSP, expanded the materials accepted.
- Consumer-sized solid, liquid, and gaseous products that are flammable, corrosive, and toxic.
- Batteries
- Pesticides
These products will continue to be collected at the recycling facility.
Where can I find more information?
Visit Circular Materials information page at Recycling in Alberta | Circular Materials
Visit ARMA's information page at Extended Producer Responsibility - ARMA.
