Alberta has become the first province in Canada to officially launch an electronic recycling program, solidifying its reputation as a leader in environmental management.  As of October 1, 2004 televisions, computers and related equipment currently going into Alberta's landfills will 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 will be discarded from Alberta households.  These electronics contain hazardous materials like lead and mercury that can cause significant environmental and health hazards through potential soil or groundwater contamination if they end up in Alberta landfills.  However, managed properly, the metals, glass and plastics 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.  An environmental fee, ranging from $5 to $45, depending on the item, will be placed on each product included in the program.  The fee covers the costs of collection, transportation and recycling of electronics material, education and awareness programs and electronics recycling related research.  Collection will be co-coordinated through locally run depots and drop-off points across the province.

A non-profit organization - the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) - will manage the province-wide recycling program on behalf of Albertans.  Alberta's existing tire recycling program will be consolidated into ARMA in order to gain greater efficiencies in managing the recycling system across the province.  ARMA will manage the recycling programs through two separate divisions - Tire Recycling Alberta and Electronics Recycling Alberta.  Over time ARMA may be expanded for other materials including paint and hazardous household waste.

The e-recycling program is a key part of the Albert Government's strategy to reduce the annual per capita waste going to landfills from the current level of 750 kilograms per person to 500 kilograms by 2010.  This program will just enable them - no matter where they live in Alberta - to be sure their old and used electronics are a resource, not a risk, to future generations.