Starting April 1, 2025, Alberta will implement the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program, a transformative initiative in waste management. Under EPR, producers will take responsibility for the lifecycle of their recyclable products, including collection and disposal. This shift reduces environmental impacts, modernizes recycling systems, and alleviates financial burdens on municipalities and taxpayers.
Aquatera is proud to lead the transition to EPR in Grande Prairie. Phase I will focus on residential blue bag materials, with significant fee reductions and no service disruptions. Phase II, launching October 1, 2026, will expand services to underserved communities and introduce glass recycling. Learn more in the FAQ's below.
What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
EPR is an environmental policy that shifts the responsibility for managing the lifecycle of recycling products, including collection and disposal, from governments and taxpayers to the producers who create the products. It is designed to reduce waste, improve recycling rates, and foster a circular economy.
Why is EPR being introduced in Alberta?
EPR aims to modernize waste management systems, reduce environmental impacts, and ensure producers take accountability for the products they create. This shift encourages innovation in packaging design and recycling processes while alleviating the financial burden on municipalities and taxpayers.
How does EPR benefit the environment and communities?
EPR reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills, minimizes pollution, and encourages the development of sustainable, recyclable products. It also makes recycling more accessible across communities, promoting equity in waste management services.
What materials are covered under EPR?
EPR in Alberta covers blue bag materials used by residential consumers. This includes:
- Cardboard, paper, and boxboard
- Aluminum and steel packaging (e.g., food cans)
- Hard plastics labelled with recycling numbers (e.g., containers, bottles)
These materials are collected through curbside recycling and at the Eco Centre.
What materials are exempt from the EPR program?
Certain materials are not included in Alberta's EPR program, including:
- Refundable containers such as bottles, cans, milk cartons, and other items requiring a deposit
- Specific types of plastics such as Styrofoam
- Paint and paint-eligible materials
- Select automotive products such as motor oils and lubricants
- Commercial recycling; the EPR program only applies to residentially consumed materials and does not cover commercial or industrial recycling streams
Will glass recycling be available in my area? If so, when?
Glass recycling will be introduced during Phase II of the EPR rollout, starting October 1, 2026. This will further enhance waste diversion efforts in Alberta.
Will there be any changes to my recycling services during the transition?
No, residents will not experience disruptions to their recycling services during the transition to EPR. Municipal curbside and depot programs will continue as usual under Phase I, with enhancements introduced in Phase II.
Do I need to do anything differently when recycling under EPR?
No. Customers can continue to recycle as they currently do; no changes to sorting or collection methods are expected.
Will EPR affect commercial or industrial recycling programs?
No. EPR only applies to residentially consumed materials and does not impact commercial or industrial recycling programs.
Will my recycling fees change under the EPR program?
Yes, customers can expect a reduction in monthly recycling fees beginning April 1, 2025. This reduction is due to subsidies provided by producers under the EPR program.
Who is responsible for funding the recycling programs under EPR?
Producers of blue bag materials are responsible for funding the recycling programs, as mandated under EPR.
What are Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), and how do they work?
PROs are organizations established by producers to manage the collection, recycling, and disposal of blue bag materials. They ensure compliance with EPR regulations, fund recycling programs, and collaborate with municipalities to deliver effective waste management services.
How does EPR ensure producers are held accountable for their products?
Under Alberta’s EPR legislation, producers are legally required to fund and manage the lifecycle of their products. Compliance is monitored through reporting requirements, audits, and penalties for non-compliance.
What happens to the recyclable materials collected under EPR?
Recyclable materials are processed into new products or materials, supporting the circular economy and reducing reliance on virgin resources.
When does EPR take effect?
EPR takes effect on April 1, 2025.
What are the phases of the EPR rollout in Alberta?
EPR will launch in two phases:
- Phase I, running from April 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, will see municipal curbside and depot programs for blue bag materials transition to producer responsibility.
- Phase II, beginning October 1, 2026 and continuing beyond, will extend recycling services to previously underserved communities, ensuring equitable access to recycling across Alberta.
What legislation governs EPR in Alberta?
In Alberta, EPR is governed by the Extended Producer Responsibility Regulation, introduced in 2022 under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act. The City of Grande Prairie has opted into the EPR program and entrusted Aquatera to administer and collaborate directly with PROs. EPR is legislated in the City of Grande Prairie Utility Bylaw C-1365.
What happens if producers or PROs do not comply with the regulation?
Non-compliance can result in fines, penalties, and potential legal action under the regulation.
Where can I go for more information or updates on EPR in Alberta?
For more information you can visit: