As of January 1, 2025, Quebec residents will now follow uniform recycling rules, regardless of their city. This change, as part of a sweeping reform to simplify recycling and increase efficiency, allows all types of containers, packaging, and printed materials to be placed in the same recycling bin.
The only exceptions are pressurized metal containers, polystyrene protective packaging, and biodegradable or biodegradable plastics.
Maryse Vermette, President and CEO of Éco Entreprises Québec (EEQ), described the reform as transformative. “This is a real revolution that we are about to experience,” she said.
EEQ, representing companies responsible for the products they market, now monitors and finances the recycling system under the principle of extended producer responsibility (EPR).
According to Vermette, this centralized approach allows for more efficient collection and higher recycling rates. “Giving selective collection management to one actor allows us to collect larger quantities of materials, making recycling more economically viable,” she explained.
EEQ plans to invest millions in upgrading sorting centers across Quebec over the next several years. These updates aim to improve the quality of ordered items, making them more valuable for resale. “By increasing quality, we expect a return on investment,” said Vermette.
Some facilities, such as the recently opened sorting center 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The outdated sorting facility at Saint-Michel has been replaced, and a new facility is planned for the Estrie region by 2027.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 the northern suburbs of Montreal and Quebec City.
To optimize sorting, EEQ is researching special facilities for separating plastics and mixed fibers such as paper and cardboard. Vermette highlighted the need for cost-effective solutions, saying, “It doesn't make sense to invest in highly sophisticated equipment for every sorting plant, especially those handling lower volumes. “
The reform also includes financial incentives to promote environmentally friendly packaging. There will be penalties against companies for using materials that are difficult to recycle.
For example, the tax for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polylactic acid (PLA) packaging, such as bed 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 said. The initiative encourages businesses to prioritize single-material packaging, reduce excess packaging, and reduce shipping weight.
