Despite efforts like the Canada-wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste, Canada still only recycles 9% of its plastics. The rest? Around 86% ends up in landfills, and 4% is burned for energy, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.
In Alberta, plastic waste is particularly concerning. The Alberta Plastics Data Project revealed that 390 tons of plastic were disposed of by just 25 companies in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland in 2021—garbage bags being the most common.
Agriculture is also feeling the weight of plastic waste. Grain bags, silage wrap, and twine are piling up in rural areas, prompting Albertans to urge the government to step up action.
But there’s hope—and it starts with all of us.
Here’s how you can help:
– Use reusable bags, bottles, and containers
– Refuse single-use plastics (straws, cutlery, etc.)
– Sort and recycle plastics properly
– Support smart product design—durable, repairable, recyclable
– Choose businesses committed to zero waste practices
Plastic doesn’t have to be forever—let’s create a circular economy that works for people and planet.
Sources:
canada.ca
albertaplasticsrecycling.com
alberta.ca/agricultural-plastics
#ZeroPlasticWaste #PlasticPollution #PROSDOMA #Recycle
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