Modernizing curbside collection and recycling: Companies are part of the solution

Curbside collection is now a well-established process in Québec – no less than 99% of households have access to a service – and the Minister of the Environment and the Fight Against Climate Change, Benoît Charette, is actively working to modernize the system, with an action committee that includes Éco Entreprises Québec.

Companies that produce and market containers, packaging and printed matter have already financed curbside recycling to the tune of more than $1 billion over fourteen years, while working voluntarily to optimize the process. This is a force to be reckoned with where the modernization of the recovery and recycling industry is concerned.

Needless to say, this reflection process must take into account the current system, current challenges as well as ongoing discussions and projects pertaining to recyclable materials overall. Focusing on collective intelligence, targeting an open and flexible partnership between companies and municipalities and leveraging innovation will make it possible to ensure the longevity of curbside collection and effective materials recycling.

Implementing a true circular economy for recycling requires a bold and unifying vision from government. In Québec, thousands of local companies proudly finance materials recovery. Now that the foundations have been laid, let’s work together to make our recycling stream a model across all of North America.

Maryse Vermette
President and CEO
Éco Entreprises Québec