Government of Alberta seeking input on agricultural plastics management

The Government of Alberta is gathering input on the potential inclusion of agricultural plastics in a provincial regulatory framework.

The initiative, led by Alberta Environment and Protected Areas alongside Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, seeks feedback on:

• types of agricultural plastics to include
• clarifying the description of the obligated plastics producer
• material recovery rate targets
• service standards for material collection, and
• cost implications.

Since 2019, Alberta Agriculture and irrigation has funded the Alberta Ag-Plastic. Recycle It! pilot program for grain bags and twine. With support from a growing network of collection partners, this pilot has successfully diverted millions of kilograms of recyclable plastic from landfills. It has also underscored the importance of clean material preparation and accessible local collection infrastructure in making recycling viable.

Alberta Ag Plastic. Recycle It! program extended until December 2025

The pilot is led by the Agricultural Plastics Recycling Group (APRG), operated by Cleanfarms, and administered by Alberta Beef Producers.

With the province’s Extended Producer Responsibility Regulation now in place, officials are evaluating whether agricultural plastics should be managed through a similar regulatory approach.

The survey takes 25-30 minutes to complete and is open until September 12, 2025.

Learn More and Share Your Thoughts

About the APRG

The Agricultural Plastics Recycling Group (APRG) was formed in December 2016 in response to interest in recycling options and policy for agricultural plastics in Alberta. The group includes over 20 organizations, such as producer groups (including Alberta Beef Producers), municipalities, retailers, manufacturers, and non-profits. It was established to explore practical, province-wide solutions for managing agricultural plastic waste.

View the APRG’s Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about everything from “What typically happens to ag plastics?” to “What will be the cost to implement EPR for ag-plastics in Alberta?”