Strengthening Circularity in Alberta in a Time of Change
March 2025 – Letter from RCA Executive Director Jennifer Koole
2025 is set to be a pivotal year for exploring and advancing the circular economy in Alberta. We are entering the early days of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) implementation, beginning on April 1st, the very real possibility of trade challenges on the horizon, and the potential for a future waste-to-energy facility. Now more than ever, we are entering a period of significant transformation, bringing both challenges and opportunities.
The RCA has been—and will continue to be—closely monitoring these changes, providing strategic leadership, and collaborating with our members to navigate this transformational time successfully. As always, we welcome your insights and ideas on how we can best support you through these shifts.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): A Game Changer for Alberta
EPR comes into effect for packaging and paper products (PPP) (or blue bin recyclables) as well as hazardous and special products (HSP) on April 1, 2025. EPR is a game changer for municipalities and the recycling industry in the province.
Transitioning to EPR won’t be without its challenges—adjusting to new systems and regulations takes time. But the benefits are significant, including potential recycling fee savings for residents. You can read more about this in our recent press release.
The RCA remains committed to supporting members throughout this transition. Our leadership and collaboration will continue beyond April 1st as municipalities and operators adjust to full implementation.
Potential Trade Disruptions & Circular Resilience
With the possibility of new American tariffs, we could be facing another round of supply disruptions—just as we’ve started to recover from those triggered by the pandemic.
Disruptions bring challenges, but they also drive change, and the principles of a circular economy provide a framework for building greater resilience in our supply chains. By prioritizing reuse, repair, and local material recovery, businesses and communities can reduce dependence on volatile global markets. Emphasizing service-based business models and multi-use materials also helps insulate Alberta from trade instability.
The RCA will continue advocating for policies that strengthen local circular solutions and help our members navigate shifting trade conditions. In February, the RCA was invited by CITT (Canada’s Logistics Association) to the Calgary Logistics Briefing to deliver a keynote presentation on ‘Is the Circular Economy the New Sustainability?’.
Exploring Waste-to-Energy (WTE) and Circularity
The role of WTE in a circular economy is a growing topic of discussion in Alberta as it could become reality. To facilitate meaningful exploration of this issue, RCA will host Explore Circularity Day on March 10, 2025, at NAIT’s Productivity and Innovation Centre in Edmonton. We invite you to join us at Explore Circularity Day to engage in this critical discussion and hear from all sides. The full-day event will feature thought-provoking speakers, a dynamic debate, and interactive discussions. It is made possible, in part, through the generous support of NAIT, Varme, Geocycle, REAC, the City of Edmonton, Lloyd Sadd, BCMB, Aquatera and Waste Gurus.
Looking Ahead
The months ahead will be dynamic for Alberta’s circular economy future. With EPR implementation, evolving trade policies, and key industry events, 2025 is set to be a defining year. Thank you for your ongoing commitment—I look forward to working together to navigate change and advance the circular economy in Alberta.
Warm regards,
Jennifer Koole
Executive Director, Recycling Council of Alberta
