Under Alberta's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program, producers are generally required to collect designated materials through a common collection system—the shared recycling infrastructure made available to Albertans in registered communities. In some circumstances, however, a producer may apply to operate their own separate collection system instead. This is known as an Alternative Collection System (ACS).
An ACS can take different forms, such as an in-store take-back program, a brand-specific drop-off network, or another collection model that operates independently from the common system. To qualify, an ACS must meet specific requirements set out in ARMA's bylaws, including accessibility, promotion and education, and material management standards.
Key Considerations:
- ACSapplication is voluntary and will only apply to a small number of producers whose applications are approved by Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA). The majority of producers will continue to meet their EPR obligations by participating in the Common Collection System through a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO).
- A non-refundable application fee of $2,500 will be charged to each producer who applies to operatean ACS. This fee is designed to recover the direct and indirect costs ARMA incurs in reviewing and assessing each application
- ARMA's ACS application procedure will be published soon.
Consultation Questions:
- The ACS application fee is a one-time, non-refundable fee of $2,500, designed to recover the administrative costs associated with reviewing the ACS Do you feel this fee is reasonable and financially sustainable for an organization? If not, please share whether you feel it should be higher or lower and why.
- Isthe information and documentation required to support an ACS application clear and accessible? Are there any gaps or areas where additional guidance would be helpful?
Please provide your responses and comments via email to epr@albertarecycling.ca by June 5, 2026.
