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

Connector August 2024

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 needed to set up a permanent provincial renewable energy recycling program for solar panels, electric vehicle batteries and wind turbine components. This will include exploring what new programs and policies are needed to support solar panel recycling, including any potential fees or landfill bans.  These additions will make Alberta’s recycling system the most comprehensive in Canada according to the press release on Tuesday.

RCA member ARMA has played a crucial role in running an expanded electronics pilot program over the past few years to demonstrate the benefits of an expanded electronics program for all Albertans.

Starting April 1, 2025, this pilot will become a permanent, province wide part of Alberta’s recycling system, enabling Albertans to recycle more electronic items, including:

  • power tools
  • lawn and garden equipment
  • small appliances (e.g., microwaves, coffee machines, digital bathroom scales)
  • cell phones / telephones
  • A/V devices (e.g., speakers, DVD players, VCRs)
  • musical instruments (e.g., electric guitars, keyboards)
  • video game equipment
  • toys

Alberta municipalities are instrumental to the collection of these items; which can be dropped off at any of the 365 registered recycling depots in 148 municipalities across the province.

“ARMA’s expanded Electronics Recycling Program is protecting our environment, fostering innovation and shaping tomorrow’s solutions. By managing e-waste and tackling the complexities of renewable energy materials head on, we’re creating new opportunities, new industries and more jobs and building our circular economy. It means a more sustainable future without waste for Alberta. I want to extend my gratitude to the Government of Alberta for its unwavering support, which has been crucial in our efforts.”
Ed Gugenheimer, chief executive officer, Alberta Recycling Management Authority

RCA member Quantum Recycling is also part of the solution with new recycling technologies. ARMA invested $250,000 to help Quantum Recycling install an AI-powered X-ray system, which is capable of scanning material and auto identifying which item in the e-waste stream contains hazardous waste in real time, primarily targeting embedded batteries. 

“Alberta is home to a dynamic waste management and resource recovery sector, which is why we continue to invest here. We applaud the Alberta government for its leadership in allowing for a competitive collection system and ensuring that all products with a battery or plug are recycled. These initiatives lead to the market stability and scale required for companies like Quantum to grow our operations and provide amazing service to all Albertans with the highest environment outcomes and the lowest possible cost.”  
Gary Diamond, president, Quantum Lifecycle Partners

Quotes and information on the announcement have come directly from the August 13 Government of Alberta News Release. See the full announcement here.