FAQ
Why do we want to reduce plastics going to landfill?
In spite of continuous increases in the use of plastics since the 1970’s, landfill audits over time have regularly measured plastics in landfill at only 7 to 9% (by weight) of total materials disposed. Those percentages have remained constant for two reasons. “Down-guageing” (the use of thinner, lighter plastics with superior performance characteristics) and the success of recycling. Holding plastics at these disposed levels is a positive outcome and plastics, by design, are inert and no long-term threat to landfill. But, because plastics tend to be light, rigid and bulky, they typically occupy a disproportionate amount of space in landfill. Burial of plastics should be discouraged whenever practical. For example, foamed plastics (like cushion packaging and insulating panels) are only about 5% plastic and 95% inert gas.
As an option to burial, most thermo-plastics plastics are recyclable and, once cleaned and flaked or formed as a pellet, can be re-molded into new products. Recycling is a responsible option to burial and a useful waste-minimization tool.
Is plastic being recycled here in Alberta?
What do the numbers on plastic containers mean? Are they important?
I have some plastic, is it recyclable?
The answer in Alberta is probably yes. If you have a small amount, less than 100 kilograms, contact your local recycling depot or municipality. If you have more than 100 kilograms and produce these larger volumes as part of regular business activity, contact APRA and we may be able to help direct you to a recycler specializing in that material. Before you contact us please have answers to the following questions:
- Check your plastics for information. Are there any indications of identification codes #1 through #7? Is there any printed indication of type of plastic, i.e. Code #, HDPE or PVC or other? Do you have more than one type of plastic? Note any information you find.
- How and how often do you receive these plastics? Is your plastics waste a “one-time” occurrence (how much do you have now) or do you receive these types of materials regularly (how much do you generate in a month or a year)?
- Are you able to take photos of the plastics and email them? If you can, please make sure to include something to provide perspective. As an example, park a vehicle or have an employee stand beside the plastics.
After completing the steps above, email us at albertaplastics@gmail.com or call at TOLL FREE 855-939-2386
What are steps to consider before I start a recycling program?
- Identify a receiver
- Assess generation – how much material do you have?
- Determine collection/densification/storage/transportation
- Design and maintain education program
- Move to market
- Strive to increase capture