Last Updated:	2004-10-11
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Introduction

The Alberta Environment Ministry (“Environment Alberta”) published final regulations that took effect on June 1, 2004 creating Canada’s first Provincial electronics recycling program. Under the program, electronics “suppliers” will be responsible for remitting an advance disposal surcharge (“ADS”) on the sale of certain specified electronics goods in Alberta. The initial phase of the program applies to desktop computers, laptop computers, computer monitors, printers and televisions. The program may be expanded in subsequent phases to include cellular phones, stereos, VCRs, DVD players, electronic games and fax machines.

The regulations call for the creation of the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (“ARMA”), a multi-media recycling board that will oversee the implementation of the regulations and operation of ADS-recycling programs for certain materials in the province. At present, two materials have been “designated” for recycling and the imposition of an ADS in Alberta: electronics and tires. Accordingly, the regulations create ARMA subsidiary divisions that correspond to these two designated materials: Electronics Recycling Alberta (“ERA”) and Tire Recycling Alberta.