As of 1 January 2025, Quebec residents now follow uniform recycling rules, regardless of their municipality. This change, part of a sweeping reform to simplify recycling and increase efficiency, allows all types of containers, packaging, and printed materials to be disposed of in the same recycling bin.
The only exceptions are pressurised metal containers, polystyrene protective packaging, and biodegradable or degradable plastics.
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Maryse Vermette, President and CEO of Éco Entreprises Québec (EEQ), described the reform as transformative. “This is a genuine revolution we are about to experience,” she said.
EEQ, representing companies responsible for the materials they market, now oversees and funds the recycling system under the principle of extended producer responsibility (EPR).
According to Vermette, this centralised approach will enable more efficient collection and higher recycling rates. “Handing over the management of selective collection to a single actor allows us to gather larger volumes of materials, making recycling more economically viable,” she explained.
Investing in modern recycling centres
EEQ plans to invest millions into upgrading sorting centres across Quebec over the next several years. These upgrades aim to improve the quality of sorted materials, making them more valuable for resale. “By enhancing quality, we anticipate a return on investment,” Vermette noted.
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By GlobalDataSome facilities, such as the recently opened sorting centre in Montreal-East, are already operational, while others are under development.
The outdated sorting facility at Saint-Michel has been replaced, and a new facility is planned for the Estrie region by 2027. Additional projects are being considered for northern Montreal and Quebec City suburbs.
To further optimise sorting, EEQ is exploring specialised facilities for separating plastics and mixed fibres like paper and cardboard. Vermette highlighted the need for cost-effective solutions, stating, “It doesn’t make sense to invest in highly sophisticated equipment for all sorting centres, especially those handling lower volumes.”
Encouraging eco-friendly packaging
The reform also introduces financial incentives to promote environmentally friendly packaging. Companies will face penalties for using materials that are difficult to recycle.
For example, the fee for polychloride vinyl (PVC) and polylactic acid (PLA) packaging, such as bedding covers and biodegradable plastics, will double under a system known as “eco-modulated” pricing.
“We want to send the message that packaging decisions have consequences,” Vermette emphasised. The initiative encourages businesses to prioritise single-material packaging, reduce over-packaging, and minimise the weight of containers.
By standardising recycling processes and placing responsibility on producers, Quebec’s initiative aims to transform waste management, reduce landfill use, and drive sustainable practices across industries.
“This reform provides a unique opportunity to develop markets for materials that were previously ignored,” Vermette concluded.
