New Brunswick Marks One Year Since Transition to Extended Producer Responsibility
On November 1st, 2024, Circular Materials shared the following press release:
New Brunswick is marking an important milestone today, reaching the one-year anniversary of its transition to extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging and paper products. As the first Atlantic province to implement this framework, New Brunswick’s EPR program reflects Circular Materials’ commitment to designing a recycling system that improves efficiency, effectiveness, and accessibility. By optimizing processes and increasing recovery and participation rates, the program supports better environmental outcomes for all residents in New Brunswick.
As part of Circular Materials’ ongoing commitment to technological advancement, the organization released a request for proposals (RFP) last June for post-collection services related to recyclable materials for both New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. This initiative will integrate innovative technologies that enhance system efficiency and improve recovery rates across Atlantic Canada.
“As we continue to expand our presence in New Brunswick, Circular Materials remains focused on building a recycling system that meets the needs of all residents,” said Andrew Philopoulos, Managing Director, Atlantic Canada at Circular Materials. “Our goal is to ensure a seamless transition with improved recycling services and technological advancements that increase recovery rates, benefiting residents, producers and the environment.”
“Circular Materials has made great progress over the past year assuming responsibility for the management of recyclable packaging and paper products in the province,” said Timothy LeBlanc, CEO of Recycle NB. “Under their leadership, many communities can now recycle more products, including glass jars, white polystyrene and flexible plastics. We look forward to the next phase of program implementation, which will introduce recycling programs to additional sectors, such as schools and multi-unit dwellings.”
As part of New Brunswick’s ongoing transition, Circular Materials continues to collaborate closely with First Nations communities. Circular Materials has been working with First Nations communities to fully transition 13 of 15 First Nations communities to EPR. We also continue our engagement efforts with the remaining communities to ensure full participation. Working alongside organizations, like the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council, and each First Nations community is crucial to delivering recycling services that address the unique needs of these communities.
Looking ahead, the EPR program will continue to expand, with schools and multi-family dwellings across New Brunswick being integrated into the recycling initiative for packaging and paper products. This will happen in two phases first starting on May 1, 2025, and then November 1, 2025. The phased approach is part of a collective effort and broader mission to enhance sustainability and increase recycling in educational institutions, multi-family residences and public spaces by 2027. Collaboration with stakeholders is key to ensuring a seamless transition to EPR, and we are actively working with our partners to support this goal.
To read the original press release, for more information on the New Brunswick Stewardship Plan for Packaging and Paper, or to learn about Circular Material, visit: https://www.circularmaterials.ca/news/new-brunswick-marks-one-year-since-transition-to-extended-producer-responsibility/