Next phase of provincial recycling regulations rolls out this fall
Starting October 1, Alberta's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program will enter Phase 2. This transition will extend residential curbside recycling service to several communities that were previously exempt from the program.
As part of this, the City of Lethbridge has been contracted by Circular Materials as the service provider for curbside recycling collection in 10 neighbouring communities. This includes Nobleford, Picture Butte, Coalhurst, Monarch, Diamond City, Shaughnessy, Fairview, Deer Run Estates and Mountain Meadows.
"We are working closely with Circular Materials and our regional partners to ensure a smooth rollout and successful delivery of curbside recycling programs in their communities," says James Nicholls, Waste & Environment Operations Manager. “These communities can expect to receive their blue carts in mid-to-late September, along with detailed information about the program to help them prepare for their first collection in October.”
Circular Materials is a not-for-profit organization that oversees EPR in Alberta and helps producers meet their obligations under the program. Since April 2025, EPR has shifted the cost of recycling single-use plastics, paper and packaging products away from municipalities and onto the producers who create them.
“We are proud to work alongside partners such as the City of Lethbridge to deliver an advanced recycling system that increases recycling rates, reduces material sent to landfill and delivers stronger environmental outcomes for Albertans for years to come,” says Blaire Gaalaas, Managing Director – Alberta, Circular Materials. “We look forward to delivering an efficient and effective system that will make recycling easier for Albertans, helping to advance a more sustainable future.”
The expansion of collections to regional customers will not impact households in Lethbridge.
"Lethbridge residents who already receive curbside recycling service will not notice any difference in their service," says Nicholls. "Collection days will stay the same, and curbside recycling will continue to be provided at no cost to residents.”
Operating both local and regional recycling programs supports City Council's 2026-2029 Strategic Plan by advancing the priorities of an environmentally responsible city and a city that partners.
Residents are encouraged to download the free Lethbridge Loop app to receive collection reminders and view a complete list of accepted recycling materials.
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