Recycling Regulation Policy Intentions Paper

Engagement Summary

Producers of certain products are responsible for the life cycle of those products. This includes collection and recycling. A producer can be a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer. This approach shifts responsibility from local governments, Indigenous governments, and taxpayers to the producers and their consumers. It is knows as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and it is governed by the Recycling Regulation.

Using EPR:

• Reduces waste management costs on local and Indigenous governments
• Makes recycling more accessible for consumers
• Grows B.C. recycling businesses
• Incentivizes innovation
• Creates job opportunities

Feedback was sought on expanding EPR to include new products like:

• Mattresses
• Moderately hazardous products
• Electronic and electrical products, including electric vehicle batteries and solar equipment
• Non-residential packaging and paper products

People were also invited to provide input on approaches to lost or abandoned fishing gear.

For more information, visit the Extended Producer Responsibility website.