Electronic Recycling
Program overview
Alberta is moving ahead as a leader in environmental management, with the creation of the first provincial
electronic recycling program in Canada.
As of October 1, 2004, televisions, computers and related equipment that were going into Alberta’s landfills
began to be collected, reused, recycled and turned into new products and economic opportunities for Albertans.
In 2004, more than 190,000 televisions and 90,000 desktop computers were discarded from Alberta households.
These electronics contain materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium, beryllium and PVC plastics that can cause
significant environmental and health risks if they end up in Alberta landfills. However, the metals, glass and
plastic in these used products can be recycled into valuable products, including the next generation of
electronics.
In the initial phase of the program, televisions, computer monitors, CPUs, laptops, electronic notebooks and
printers will be accepted for recycling. Starting in February 2005, an environmental fee, ranging from $5 to $45
(depending on the item), will be placed on each product included in the program.
A non-profit organization – the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) – will manage the
province-wide recycling program on behalf of Albertans.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you would like more information on E-recycling, contact ARMA at electronics@albertarecycling.ca or tollfree at 1-888-999-8762.