November 2025 Letter from the Executive Director
Circular Economy Month, Conference & Community
Celebrating, Connecting & Continuing the Momentum
Yes, we’re back to the letter C again, because really, how could we not? After all, October was Circular Economy Month! This month’s Connector is brought to you by the letter C for Celebrating, Connecting, and Continuing the Momentum.
October was one to remember. During Circular Economy Month, we hosted our annual Circular Economy Conference, hosted a Circular Marketplace, and even saw Calgary’s Reconciliation Bridge lit in purple for Waste Reduction Week. It was a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come, and how much potential there is ahead. Thank you to everyone who joined us, sponsored, volunteered, and shared your ideas and energy. Together, we’re building something truly special.
Celebrating
Nearly 400 attendees joined us in Jasper for the Shoot for the Stars Circular Economy Conference! The energy in the room was incredible as Alberta’s circular leaders came together for three days of learning, laughter, and inspiration. From thought-provoking sessions and inspiring keynote speakers to the upcycled costume contest, photo booth, and oxygen bar, it was a conference filled with connection.
We also had the honour of celebrating our 2025 Rs of Excellence Award winners, members who continue to raise the bar for circular innovation across Alberta. Congratulations again to all the recipients, and thank you for the work you do every day to move circularity forward.
This year’s physical awards were created by ChopValue YYC, engineered from 1,650 locally recycled chopsticks, a perfect example of circular design in action.
Connecting
Our Annual General Meeting was another highlight, where we welcomed new and returning Board members and released the RCA’s 2024–25 Annual Report. Seeing so many of you in person reminded me what makes this community so special, the conversations, the collaboration, and the shared commitment to building a circular Alberta.
Continuing the Momentum
And the momentum continues! Registration is now open for Explore Circularity Day – Textiles, happening March 19 at the Calgary Zoo, where we’ll explore how the textile industry can close the loop.
Before that, mark your calendars for Big Shot, our circular business pitch night on November 19 at Edmonton Unlimited, and our in-person Board Meeting and Member Christmas Party on December 11 at Blindman Brewing in Lacombe (yes, there will be tacos!).
We’re restructuring our team to build capacity in delivering on the Vision 2030 plan. Know someone passionate about circularity? Invite them to apply for our newly posted role that focuses on growing, supporting, and empowering our membership to advance the circular economy in Alberta—details are on our website.
Jennifer Koole
Executive Director
Recycling Council of Alberta
