Circular Materials

Bales of plastics ready to be recycled.

Advancing the Circular Economy: A National Commitment

Circular Materials (TM) logo.

The growth and transformation of Waste Reduction Week to Circular Economy Month wouldn’t be possible without the support of our program partners over the past twenty years. For 2023 we are pleased to welcome Circular Materials as a Founding Partner of Canada’s Circular Economy Month campaign.

The evolution and growth of the circular economy in Canada has been significantly influenced by the dedication and efforts of various organizations. Among the frontrunners is Circular Materials, a national not-for-profit producer responsibility organization that builds efficient and effective recycling systems where materials are collected, recycled and returned to producers to use as recycled content in new packaging and products. 

Established by Canada’s leading food, beverage, and consumer products manufacturers, retailers, and restaurants, Circular Materials takes a harmonized approach to supporting its producer members in meeting their extended producer responsibility (EPR) obligations across the country. 

Circular Materials is unwavering in its commitment to:

  • Building Effective Recycling Systems: By focusing on the circular economy, the organization ensures that materials are looped back, reducing waste, and promoting sustainability.
  • Supporting Producers: Through the design and implementation of extended producer recycling programs, Circular Materials aids producers in meeting their regulatory obligations.
  • Optimizing Recycling Supply Chain: By creating and managing procurement frameworks, the organization ensures smooth operations across the entire supply chain.
  • Promotion and Education: With clear and compelling initiatives, Circular Materials aims to increase recycling rates and drive impactful results.

What is Extended Producer Responsibility?

Extended producer responsibility, or EPR, is fundamental to advancing the circular economy. It is a policy approach where producers – the businesses that supply packaging and paper to residents – are financially responsible and accountable for those materials over their full life cycle.  EPR enables innovation, operational efficiencies, increased standard levels, and access to materials. It is recognized as one of the most effective mechanisms to improve recycling rates.

Join the Movement

Circular Materials is more than just an organization; it’s a movement towards a more sustainable future for both people and the planet. With collaborations with thought leaders and a dedicated team, they are shaping the future of recycling in and a circular economy in Canada.

Learn more: circularmaterials.ca. 

Read “Advancing a Circular Economy for Packaging and Paper Products”, an article by Circular Materials, here!