RCA Newsflash

Attend Alberta’s Best Circular Economy Conference – “Beyond the Grave, A Circular All Hallows’ Eve”

It’s almost time for the Recycling Council of Alberta’s Circular Economy Conference—and this year’s theme is “Beyond the Grave, A Circular All Hallows’ Eve“! From October 30 to November 1, join us at the hauntingly beautiful Banff Springs Hotel for a conference filled with thrills, chills, and sustainability skills. Our annual conference isn’t just Alberta’s…

Fostering Sustainable Behavior Workshop Announcement

Dr. Doug McKenzie-Mohr, the founder of community-based social marketing, will provide his Fostering Sustainable Behavior virtual workshop in early December. This workshop is essential training for anyone who delivers programs to promote sustainable behaviors, such as waste reduction, water and energy efficiency, modal transportation shifts, and conservation. Over 75,000 have attended his workshops, and community-based…

Join the RCA in Celebrating Circular Economy Month this October!

The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) is participating in Circular Economy Month this October, and we invite you to join in! From October 1-31, Canadians will unite to promote the circular economy through learning and action, with themed weeks spotlighting different aspects of circularity. During Circular Economy Month, we’re hosting our annual RCA Circular Economy Conference, ‘Beyond…

Join the RCA Board of Directors to Shape Alberta’s Circular Economy

The RCA is an agent of change – advancing solutions that will transform our throwaway society into one where waste is eliminated and we live in a circular economy. We are looking for passionate individuals to join the RCA Board of Directors for the 2024-2027 term. The election will take place at the AGM on…

Alberta’s Expanded Electronics Recycling Program and Focus on Renewable Recycling Aims to Create the Best Recycling System in Canada

The Government of Alberta shared the news on August 13 that over 500 additional electronic items including cell phones, power tools and microwaves will be added to the provincial recycling program in April 2025. In addition, Alberta’s government and the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) will start consulting with experts and industry partners on steps…

Alberta’s Transition to Extended Producer Responsibility for Single-use Products, Packaging and Printed Paper Products

Starting April 1, 2025, Alberta will begin its transition to extended producer responsibility (EPR) for single-use products, packaging and printed paper products (PPP) – a move that will have producers taking full financial and operational responsibility for the recycling of their materials. This shift will create a more efficient and effective recycling system across the…

Explore Exciting Tours at the 2024 RCA Conference – Secure Your Spot Today!

Dare to join us at the 2024 RCA Circular Economy Conference for an eerily enlightening experience! This year, we’ve curated a thrilling lineup of tours designed to immerse you in the latest sustainable practices and innovations. Check out the details in the 2024 RCA Conference Program and find the tour that inspires you! Tour Schedule Afternoon Tours…

Alberta Day of Caring for Jasper – July 31

Many of you have seen the news about the wildfire that ravaged the town of Jasper. Radio stations, the Red Cross, and the Alberta Bottle Depot Association are holding a province-wide bottle drive this Wednesday, July 31, called the “Alberta Day of Caring for Jasper.” Please see this media release for more details. You can also make…

Important Reminder for Registered Phase 1 Communities: Confirm Your EPR Curbside Collection Model by August 1, 2024

As Alberta transitions to extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging and paper products, this is a reminder for communities registered for Phase 1 of the EPR transition to confirm your preferred operational model (opt-in or opt-out) for curbside collection services by August 1, 2024 to ABoperations@circularmaterials.ca.  Your prompt response is important to ensure that Circular…

Discover the Impressive Variety of Workshops Being Offered at the 2024 RCA Conference – Secure Your Spot Today!

Are you ready for the 2024 RCA Circular Economy Conference? This year, we’re thrilled to present workshops designed to deepen your understanding of critical topics within the circular economy. Dive into the details in the 2024 RCA Conference Program and choose the workshop that sparks your interest! Workshop Schedule – Wednesday, October 30th Morning Workshops…

EPR Phase 1 Deadline Approaching – Submit Your Feedback by July 10th!

For all communities registered for Phase 1 of the EPR transition, don’t forget about the July 10th deadline to provide your comments on the Master Services Agreement and term sheets to Circular Materials. As you review the term sheets, we encourage you to consider the following areas closely, and share your thoughts with Circular Materials…

Register Now for the 2024 RCA Circular Economy Conference!

We are thrilled to announce that registration is NOW OPEN for the 2024 Recycling Council of Alberta Circular Economy Conference! This year’s theme, “Beyond the Grave: A Circular All Hallows’ Eve. From cradle to grave and back again,” promises an unforgettable experience. Join us from October 30 to November 1, 2024, at the iconic Fairmont…

The Next Chapter: Jennifer Koole’s Vision as RCA’s Executive Director

On January 15, 2024, Jennifer Koole assumed the role of Executive Director of the Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA), marking a significant moment for the organization and the province’s environmental landscape. With a career spanning over two decades in environmental leadership within Alberta’s municipal government, she brings a wealth of expertise to the role. Jennifer’s…

Job Opportunity: Waste & Recycling Assistant (Temp 1 year) at Rocky View County

View the entire job posting here. Rocky View County is committed to providing our employees a respectful and stable work environment, work/life balance, and opportunities for professional learning and personal growth. We seek individuals who thrive on challenge and will contribute their positive energy, innovation, and service mindset to making a difference and contributing meaningfully…

Unlocking the Circular Economy: RCA Webinar on ‘Right to Repair’

Explore the tangible effects of the ‘Right to Repair’ movement through firsthand insights from industry experts. Our distinguished speakers will illuminate the practical applications of the right to repair in Quebec and California, provide a corporate perspective on repairability (courtesy of HP), highlight its significance in the agriculture industry, and emphasize the crucial role of…

The CCRI Releases Circular Procurement Guide

The Canadian Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI) proudly presents “Circular Procurement: Strategies for Circular Criteria,” a valuable resource tailored for municipal staff engaged in procurement. This comprehensive guide, developed in collaboration with the Circular Innovation Council and supported by FCM’s Green Municipal Fund, encapsulates key goals and strategies aligned with various procurement phases. Whether…

Recycling Council of Alberta Appoints Jennifer Koole as New Executive Director

The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) is excited to announce Jennifer Koole as the incoming Executive Director, effective January 15th, 2024. Jennifer, an environmental professional with two decades of experience in Alberta, will succeed Christina Seidel, who has passionately led the organization for the past 30 years. Jennifer Koole, renowned for her 20 years of…

Latest Developments and Key Dates for EPR Implementation in Alberta

The implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations has initiated a wave of transformative changes in Alberta. EPR aims to strengthen waste reduction efforts in our province and promote responsible recycling practices. Commencing on October 2nd, 2023, the registration process for communities is well underway, while producer registration officially commenced on November 27th, 2023. A…

2022-2023 Annual Report and Director Candidates List Now Available

Dear RCA Members, I hope this email finds you well. We are pleased to announce that the 2022-2023 Annual Report and the list of Director Candidates for the upcoming year are now available for your review. The RCA Annual General Meeting will take place next week at the RCA Conference on October 18th. You can…

ARMA and ABmunis EPR Webinar: Oct 5

On October 5th, the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) and Alberta Municipalities are hosting a free webinar on EPR Municipal Registration. Key Topics: Details: Who should attend?This virtual engagement is open to municipal staff working in solid waste and recycling. Attendance is limited to individuals elected to or employed by municipalities that are Regular Members…

Call for Nominations to the RCA Board of Directors

We are currently seeking nominations to fill three positions to be elected to the RCA Board of Directors at the 2023 Annual General Meeting on October 18, 2023. Are you passionate about driving waste reduction and fostering a thriving circular economy? Are you eager to shape the recycling policies of Alberta and leave a lasting…

The Recycling Council of Alberta Website Gets an Exciting Overhaul

We’ve been hard at work updating the Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) website, and we are thrilled to unveil the exciting changes we’ve made! Our efforts have led to three significant updates: 1. Sleek and User-Friendly Design on Main Website: The main website has received a complete revamp, now featuring a sleek and simple design. This…

Call for Participation: ECCC National Waste Characterization Study – Your Contribution Matters!

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) invites you to participate in the National Waste Characterization Study. The National Waste Characterization Study aims to gather comprehensive and accurate data on waste composition and characteristics across the country. By contributing your waste characterization reports or data, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the accuracy and…

2023 RCA Conference – Registration Open – Get the Early-Bird Rate!

The Recycling Council of Alberta’s 2023 Circular Economy Conference will take place at the stunning Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise October 18-20. Embracing the theme “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” inspired by the epic Lord of the Rings, this conference promises three days of captivating insights and engaging discussions. Register today to experience…

RCA Announces 2023 Conference in Lake Louise!

The Recycling Council of Alberta is excited to announce our Circular Economy Conference, October 18th to 20th, 2023, at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The theme There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity is based on the Lord of the Rings. For three days, attendees will hear from local, national and international experts, thought…

ZRow Recycling Systems Inc. announces new director of sales

View the press release here. ZRow Recycling Systems Inc is thrilled to announce the newest addition to our team – Mr. Bill Cummins, who will be joining us as our Director of Sales! With his extensive experience and proven track record in sales, we are confident that Bill will play a pivotal role in driving…

Ermeltek Z-Row Recycling Systems Inc now called ZRow Recycling Systems Inc.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Delta, British Columbia Canada – Effective April 4th, 2023, Ermeltek Z-Row Recycling Systems Inc is changing its company name to ZRow Recycling Systems Inc. This reflects the company’s change in ownership structure, evolution and strategic direction as we continue to provide cutting-edge equipment solutions to our customers. “We are excited about this…

A Circular Communities Success Story – Town of Banff Library of Things

The Recycling Council of Alberta is working with select municipalities across Alberta on the Circular Communities Project to create opportunities to design out waste and conserve resources to transition to a circular economy. The Town of Banff is one of the Alberta communities participating in the Circular Communities Project. They created an opportunity to embrace…

Coloured Crumb Rubber For Sale

Alberta Environmental Rubber Products is offering dark-red coloured crumb rubber for sale. This material is high-quality crumb suitable for decorative landscaping. The material comes in 35 or 40 lb bags. Contact Glenn or Amy at 780-447-1994 or operations@aerp.ca for pricing and to order. Newsflash sent on behalf of Alberta Environmental Rubber Products

Love Food Hate Waste Canada is coming to Alberta

We are proud to officially bring Love Food Hate Waste Canada to Alberta! The Recycling Council of Alberta, Strathcona County, and the City of Lethbridge have joined with the National Zero Waste Council, and communities and businesses across Canada, to help people prevent household food waste. Over the course of the next year, LFHW Canada,…

Canada Plastics Pact releases ‘Roadmap to 2025’

Ambitious action plan unites key players behind a shared vision for a circular economy for plastics packaging in Canada More than 70 leading businesses, governments and organizations including the Recycling Council of Alberta have come together to release an ambitious action plan to eliminate plastic waste through the Canada Plastics Pact. Roadmap to 2025: A shared…

RCA Challenges Government on Cancellation of HHW Program Funding

RCA President Jodi Tomchyshyn London has sent a letter to Minister of Environment & Parks Jason Nixon raising concerns about the cancellation of HHW program funding, including the resulting financial hardship on municipalities, and the potential for increased environmental burden related to increased amounts of HHW in landfill. The RCA is keen to hear back from…

Plastic Manufactured Items Added to CEPA Schedule 1

The Government of Canada has announced an amendment to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 to add plastic manufactured items to Schedule 1. Plastic manufactured items ·        Canada Gazette Order The final Order adding plastic manufactured items to Schedule 1 to CEPA has been published in the Canada Gazette, Part II. A table summarizing all comments received on the proposed…

ARMA’s HHW Program Update – April 2021

Household hazardous waste (HHW) roundups have been a staple in the lives of Albertans for over 30 years as municipalities and Indigenous communities have coached their residents to safely store items such as ammonia, bleach, oven cleaners and aerosol cans etc. to bring to the next roundup or year-round site. The millions of corrosive, flammable,…

RCA’s response to Alberta’s engagement on EPR and member webinar announcement

The Recycling Council of Alberta has provided a response to Alberta Environment and Parks’ discussion paper on Alberta’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) engagement. We have shared this response for members to review and use in consideration for their own submissions.  Submissions can be shared with Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP) by email, AEP.RecyclingRegulation@gov.ab.ca, or through…

Alberta Environment and Parks Announces Launch of EPR Engagement Plans

March 17, 2021 – This morning the Minister of Environment and Parks, Jason Nixon, announced the government’s plan to begin formal consultation on extended producer responsibility (EPR). The announcement was delivered to attendees at the Rural Municipalities Association’s 2021 Virtual Spring Convention. The government also shared a press release on the announcement. The engagement will…

RCA Releases EPR FAQs

The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) has had a great interest from members and partners to learn more about Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). We released a list of FAQs to provide answers to common questions about EPR. The FAQs should be read in conjunction with the RCA’s Key Principles of an EPR Framework. EPR is…

Scam Alert

It has come to our attention that scammers are targeting our members by email in an attempt to sell attendee lists to a virtual conference. Firstly, the RCA’s annual in-person conference has been cancelled this year and a webinar series will replace the conference (more information available at: https://recycle.ab.ca/workshop/rcas-2020-webinar-series/). Secondly, the RCA does not rent or sell…