Reflecting on a Remarkable 2024 As we approach the holiday season, the Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) is thrilled to share the highlights of an impactful year. Together, we’ve made notable strides in advancing the circular economy across Alberta. Explore more details in the 2023-2024 RCA Annual Report. Here’s a look back at some of…
2025 RCA Explore Circularity Day Topic of Exploration: Waste-to-Energy The inaugural RCA Explore Circularity Day will take place on March 10, 2025, at the Productivity and Innovation Centre at NAIT in Edmonton, Alberta, and will tackle a hot topic: should there be a place for waste-to-energy in the circular economy? Explore Circularity Day is a new concept where, once…
As the year draws to a close, the Recycling Council of Alberta is pleased to have three upcoming events in December. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, connect with industry leaders, or celebrate the season, there’s something for everyone! Upcoming Events December 11, 2024 Webinar: Technology & Innovations for Difficult-to-Divert Materials – Part 2 …
We are excited to share an incredible professional development opportunity tailored for women in the waste, recycling, and environmental industries. The RCA is proud to be one of the partners promoting this customized five-session course—Executive Presence for Women of Waste – West. This live, online cohort-based training program runs from January 16 to February 13,…
Hello RCA Members, We’ve got an exciting lineup of events to keep you engaged, informed, and connected in the coming months. Mark your calendars and join us for these incredible opportunities! November 21, 2024 – RCA Webinar: Organics Processing Capacity in Alberta Join us for a moderated, open discussion on the current state and opportunities…
Thank you to everyone who brought some Halloween magic to the #2024RCA Conference! We’re deeply grateful to each presenter, attendee, sponsor, and participant who made this year’s RCA Circular Economy Conference truly memorable. For a full message from our Executive Director, Jennifer Koole, click here. Vision 2030 Launched! 🌍 We’re excited to announce the launch…
It’s Waste Reduction Week of Circular Economy Month, and the excitement is brewing like a cauldron as we creep closer to the 2024 RCA Conference, Workshops, and AGM – only one week away! We’re counting down the days until October 30th, when the conference kicks off in beautiful Banff, Alberta. Your #2024RCA Conference Checklist: RCA Annual General Meeting &…
It’s Week 3 of Circular Economy Month, and the excitement is building as the 2024 RCA Conference approaches! We’re counting down the days until October 30th, when the conference kicks off in beautiful Banff. We can’t wait to see you there! Your #2024RCA Conference Checklist: RCA Annual General Meeting & Board Election The RCA Annual…
Happy Circular Economy Month from the Recycling Council of Alberta!This year, we’re celebrating by: How can you participate in Circular Economy Month? Help us celebrate and drive a more circular future!
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
View the job posting here. With a staff of over 30, Raven ReCentre serves the population of the Yukon, through its facility in Whitehorse. As the Executive Director for Raven, you lead the organization, manage a significant budget, advocate for better waste management practices with the territorial and municipal governments and keep Raven ReCentre positioned…
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…
Clarification Statement – Turning Setbacks into Solutions: RCA’s Perspective on Bylaw Repeal in Calgary On May 7, 2024, Calgary City Council voted to repeal the Single-Use Items Charter Bylaw. In response to our NewsFlash on this topic last week, the RCA is issuing a statement to ensure clarity. We appreciate the City of Calgary for…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 29, 2024 RE: Reduce, Reduce, Reduce: The Recycling Council of Alberta’s Perspective on UN Treaty Negotiations (INC-4) on Plastic Pollution The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) applauds the nations actively involved in the fourth round of negotiations for a UN treaty that happened in Ottawa last week called INC-4. The Treaty aims…
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…
The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) expresses its heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation to Christina Seidel for an extraordinary 32 years of leadership, dedication, and hard work. Christina’s journey began in 1991 as a board member before assuming the pivotal role of Executive Director in 1994. Her impact on the waste and recycling landscape in…
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…
The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA), a trusted authority with over three decades of experience championing waste reduction in the province, expresses disappointment with the City of Calgary Council’s decision to initiate the repeal process for its single-use items reduction bylaw. The recently enacted bylaw aimed to address the critical issue of roughly 15 million…
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 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…
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…
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…
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…
We invite you to join us for the highly anticipated 2023 RCA Circular Economy Conference, set amidst the stunning backdrop of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from October 18 to 20. This year’s theme, “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” draws inspiration from the epic Lord of the Rings saga, promising a transformative experience…
Join us for the highly anticipated 2023 RCA Circular Economy Conference, at the picturesque Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from October 18 to 20. Immerse yourself in the theme, “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” inspired by the epic Lord of the Rings saga. Brace yourself for a transformative experience as we embark on…
Get ready to embark on an exciting journey at the 2023 RCA Circular Economy Conference, set against the stunning backdrop of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, from October 18 to 20. This year’s theme, “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” draws inspiration from the epic Lord of the Rings saga. Prepare for a transformative…
Join us for the highly anticipated 2023 RCA Circular Economy Conference, at the picturesque Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from October 18 to 20. Immerse yourself in the theme, “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” inspired by the epic Lord of the Rings saga. Get ready for a transformative journey, featuring three days of…
Join us for the highly anticipated 2023 RCA Circular Economy Conference, at the picturesque Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from October 18 to 20. Immerse yourself in the theme, “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” inspired by the epic Lord of the Rings saga. Get ready for a transformative journey, featuring three days of…
It has come to our attention that scammers are targeting our members by email in an attempt to sell attendee lists from our annual conference. Please be advised that these communications are fraudulent and have no association with the Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA). For absolute clarity, the RCA unequivocally does not engage in the…
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…
Join us at the RCA Circular Economy Conference, at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from October 18th to 20th, 2023. Immerse yourself in the theme, “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” inspired by the epic Lord of the Rings saga. Get ready for three days of captivating insights and engaging discussions on the…
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…
Join us at the RCA Circular Economy Conference, at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from October 18th to 20th, 2023. Immerse yourself in the theme, “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” inspired by the epic Lord of the Rings saga. Get ready for three days of captivating insights and engaging discussions on the…
Register before September 6th: SPACE IS LIMITED To register for the event, please email:info@albertaplasticsrecycling.comWe look forward to seeing you there! JOIN US FOR SOME POLYMERIZATION LAB TOURS AND WITNESS THE MAGIC BEHIND THE PRODUCTION OF PLASTICS! Then, join us for our networking event for your chance to learn more about APRA and socialize with others…
Participate in an EPR Workshop as part of the highly anticipated 2023 RCA Circular Economy Conference, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, scheduled from October 18th to 20th. Drawing inspiration from the Lord of the Rings saga, the 2023 RCA Conference theme, “There and Back Again: the Journey to Circularity,” perfectly…
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…
Join us for the highly anticipated 2023 RCA Circular Economy Conference, at the picturesque Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from October 18 to 20. Immerse yourself in the theme, “There and Back Again: The Journey to Circularity,” inspired by the epic Lord of the Rings saga. Get ready for a transformative journey, featuring three days of…
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the highly anticipated 2023 Circular Economy Conference, hosted by the Recycling Council of Alberta. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, this conference will be held from October 18 to 20. Prepare to embark on a transformative journey as we delve into the theme,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Champagne corks were popping yesterday in response to the notice that government has approved Alberta’s enabling regulatory framework for establishing extended producer responsibility. Order in Council 346/2022 was approved on October 3, 2022 and can be found at O.C. 346/2022 (alberta.ca). The EPR regulation will come into force on November 30, 2022. Information and fact sheets about the…
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
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,…
The RCA has developed a draft response to AEP’s request for input on EPR regulations for packaging, paper products and single-use plastics (PPP-SUP) and hazardous and special products (HSP). Download the PDF Document We invite our members to provide comments regarding substantive input you may have regarding the proposed content, prior to its submission on…
On Monday, Alberta took an important and exciting step forward for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in our province by tabling new legislation to approve its introduction to Alberta. If passed, Bill 83 (Environmental Protection and Enhancement Amendment Act) sets the foundation for the implementation of an EPR Framework in 2022. An EPR framework would create…
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…
July 26, 2021 – The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) is pleased to announce the release of An Introductory Guide to On-Farm Composting for farmers, ranchers and landowners interested in learning more about the opportunities they have to build processing capacity for organics generated by municipalities and businesses. This project aims to connect urban and…
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…
In response to changes in the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) program the Alberta Recycling Management Authority has launched a FAQ website to help address questions and concerns.
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…