The Government of Alberta is bolstering its recycling programs to include electronics and renewable energy. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Alberta expanding recycling system to include more electronics, starting in 2025

Aug 14, 2024 | 9:08 AM

The Government of Alberta says it looks to create the best and most comprehensive recycling system in Canada.

Starting on April 1, 2025, residents will be able to take hundreds of additional electronic items to recycling depots across the province. They include:

• 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

The expanded items will be able to be brought to any of the 365 registered recycling depots in 148 Alberta communities.

Currently, only computer equipment and TVs can be recycled through Alberta’s regulated Electronics Recycling Program.

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Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) CEO Ed Gugenheimer says their organization is partnering with the government to protect the environment, foster innovation and shape 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,” says Gugenheimer.

The province’s partnership with ARMA goes beyond processing consumer electronics.

They will start consulting with industry experts on setting up a permanent provincial renewable energy recycling program.

The government says that as many as 800,000 tonnes of solar panels will reach their end of life by around 2050, and that there are currently no provincial wind turbine recycling programs.

The consultations will include what new programs and policies will be needed to support solar panel recycling, including any potential fees or landfill bans, as well as how the recycling of wind turbines and EV batteries can be established.

The current Electronic Recycling Pilot Program has diverted 14,500 tonnes of material from landfills since September 2020. The expanded program is estimated to divert an additional 5,500 tonnes of electronics every year.

A list of which items can be recycled is available on the Government of Alberta website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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