Frequently asked questions
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In the circular economy, waste is reimagined. Instead of throwing things away when we’re finished using them, the precious resources that go into everyday items like water bottles, lightbulbs and tires, are given a second life.
Ontario is making a shift towards a circular economy by introducing laws that make businesses responsible for collecting and recycling the products and packaging they sell once consumers are finished with them. This system is called extended producer responsibility or EPR.
EPR is a driver of the circular economy by:
- Making businesses fully responsible for the cost and operations of Ontario’s recycling programs
- Setting enforceable requirements and targets for recycling
- Establishing a regulatory body to oversee the proper collection and recycling of materials
The Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority (RPRA) is the regulator responsible for enforcing Ontario’s circular economy laws and making sure businesses fulfill their recycling requirements.
Visit our “What is the circular economy” page for more information.
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The businesses that supply products and packaging into the province are fully responsible for the cost and operations of Ontario’s recycling programs for batteries, electronics, household hazardous waste, lighting, tires, and Blue Box materials. Most businesses will work with external companies to provide collection and recycling services on their behalf.
The Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority (RPRA) does not arrange for the collection or recycling of materials in Ontario. As the regulator, RPRA is responsible for ensuring businesses meet their recycling requirements and materials are properly collected and recycled across the province.
Also see our FAQ, “What is RPRA?”