Connector – August 2025 Letter from the Executive Director
Investing in Circularity: Awards, Investments, and Conference Updates
It’s hard to believe we’re already into August. July brought a wave of exciting news for circularity in Alberta. New investments were announced, nominations opened for the Rs of Excellence Awards, and the #RCA2025 Shoot for the Stars conference program continues to come together. It’s energizing to see projects gaining traction, ideas turning into action, and RCA members being recognized for the work they’re doing across the province.
Spotlight on Investment in the Circular Economy: ERA Invests $49 Million
One of the biggest highlights was Emissions Reduction Alberta’s announcement of $49 million in new funding for circular economy and advanced materials projects. Several RCA members were among the 18 recipients. These initiatives will create jobs, cut emissions, and help scale Alberta’s circular economy.
Congratulations to the following members:
Chopsticks and Circularity at Work
In July, we toured the ChopValue YYC Microfactory. They collect used chopsticks from local restaurants and turn them into high-quality wood products like countertops and cutting boards. It was great to meet their team and see their work in action. ChopValue shows what practical, local circular economy solutions can look like. We are excited to be working with them to design and create the awards for the Rs of Excellence Award winners this year.
Nominations Now Open: Rs of Excellence Awards
Nominations are open for the 2025 Rs of Excellence Awards. These awards recognize outstanding contributions by RCA members to waste reduction and circular innovation in Alberta. The process is simple, and we encourage you to nominate a person, project, or program, doing important work in your community.
Conference Update: Program Live and Sponsors Moving Fast
Planning continues for Shoot for the Stars, our 2025 Circular Economy Conference in Jasper from October 22 to 24. The program is now live with details on all sessions, workshops, tours, and speakers.
Keynote speakers include:
- Greg Van Tighem, former Jasper Fire Chief
- Jim Elzinga, alpinist and founder of Guardians of the Ice
- Madison C. Feehan, CEO and founder of Space Copy
Sponsorships are going fast and exhibitor booths are sold out! We still have some opportunities to sponsor including the photo booth, shuttle buses, the AGM, some of the tours or workshops. Contact us at info@recycle.ab.ca to learn more or to get on the waiting list.
Looking Ahead: INC-5.2 and Global Plastic Policy
The next session of the UN’s Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution (INC-5.2) is taking place this August. The RCA will be following closely. These global discussions will influence future national and regional directions, and we remain committed to supporting thoughtful, practical change on keeping plastics out of our environment through circular practices.
Thank you to everyone who continues to advance this work. Whether you are rethinking materials, supporting communities, or leading innovation, your efforts are building a more circular Alberta.
More to come,
Jennifer Koole
Executive Director
Recycling Council of Alberta
