Introducing Circular Economy 101

On Earth Day, The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) is pleased to introduce Circular Economy 101—a foundational resource developed to support shared understanding of circular principles across Alberta. 

This resource outlines the circular economy as a system—rethinking waste as a resource, keeping materials in use, and enabling innovation and system change. It highlights why circularity matters from environmental, economic, and social perspectives, and connects these opportunities to industries operating in Alberta. 

Designed as a starting point, Circular Economy 101 supports our members to: 

• Build a common understanding of the circular economy   
• Explore practical approaches to reduce waste and extend material use  
• Understand how circular strategies apply across sectors  

The resource also features circularity in action across Alberta, showcasing organizations and initiatives that demonstrate how different approaches—from reuse and repair to recycling and material recovery—contribute to system change. 

Recognizing there is no one-size-fits-all solution; this resource encourages a strategic, context-driven approach while identifying opportunities for cross-sector collaboration. 

Explore Circular Economy 101 on our website and consider how circular principles can be applied within your organization. Making use of this resource as a foundation to develop new opportunities.