Alberta EPR fee schedule 2026: published rates, modulation and change
Last verified
The 2026 packaging fee schedule for Alberta lists 33 categories with a rate in Canadian cents per kilogram. Rates run from 31 for Magazines and Catalogues to 364 for Expanded Polystyrene. Instica read each figure from the publisher's schedule, retrieved November 5, 2026.
How the fee is built
The base of the fee is a rate per kilogram of packaging placed on the market, by material.
Every published rate
The table lists all 33 categories of the schedule with the rate exactly as published, in Canadian cents per kilogram. The last column converts each rate to CAD per tonne (1 tonne is 1,000 kg; 1 lb is 0.45359237 kg) so it can be compared with other schedules.
| Code | Category | Material | Rate (Canadian cents per kilogram) | Converted (CAD per tonne) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CM-newspapers | Newspapers | 83 | 830.00 | |
CM-newsprint-inserts-and-circulars | Newsprint (inserts and circulars) | 83 | 830.00 | |
CM-magazines-and-catalogues | Magazines and Catalogues | 31 | 310.00 | |
CM-directories | Directories | 31 | 310.00 | |
CM-other-printed-materials | Other Printed Materials | 89 | 890.00 | |
CM-purchased-posters-calendars-greeting-cards-and-envelopes | Purchased Posters, Calendars, Greeting Cards and Envelopes | 89 | 890.00 | |
CM-paper-for-general-use | Paper for General Use | 89 | 890.00 | |
CM-kraft-paper-carry-out-bags | Kraft Paper Carry-Out Bags | 101 | 1,010.00 | |
CM-kraft-paper-non-laminated | Kraft Paper - Non-Laminated | 101 | 1,010.00 | |
CM-corrugated-cardboard | Corrugated Cardboard | 70 | 700.00 | |
CM-boxboard-and-other-paper-packaging | Boxboard and Other Paper Packaging | 40 | 400.00 | |
CM-gable-top-containers | Gable Top Containers | 91 | 910.00 | |
CM-paper-laminates | Paper Laminates | 91 | 910.00 | |
CM-aseptic-containers | Aseptic Containers | 91 | 910.00 | |
CM-pet-containers-jars-and-jugs-5-litres | PET Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres | 125 | 1,250.00 | |
CM-pet-containers-jars-and-jugs-5-litres | PET Containers, Jars and Jugs >= 5 Litres | 125 | 1,250.00 | |
CM-pet-thermoform-containers-5-litres | PET Thermoform Containers < 5 Litres | 125 | 1,250.00 | |
CM-hdpe-containers-jars-and-jugs-5-litres | HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres | 63 | 630.00 | |
CM-hdpe-containers-jars-and-jugs-5-litres | HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs >= 5 Litres | 63 | 630.00 | |
CM-expanded-polystyrene | Expanded Polystyrene | 364 | 3,640.00 | |
CM-non-expanded-polystyrene | Non-Expanded Polystyrene | 165 | 1,650.00 | |
CM-other-plastic-packaging-not-listed-above-5-litres | Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) < 5 Litres | 102 | 1,020.00 | |
CM-other-plastic-packaging-not-listed-above-5-litres | Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) >= 5 Litres | 102 | 1,020.00 | |
CM-ldpe-hdpe-film | LDPE/HDPE Film | 198 | 1,980.00 | |
CM-ldpe-hdpe-film-carry-out-bags | LDPE/HDPE Film Carry-Out Bags | 198 | 1,980.00 | |
CM-plastic-laminates | Plastic Laminates | 167 | 1,670.00 | |
CM-other-steel-containers-and-packaging | Other Steel Containers and Packaging | 69 | 690.00 | |
CM-steel-aerosol-containers | Steel Aerosol Containers | 59 | 590.00 | |
CM-aluminum-food-containers | Aluminum Food Containers | 77 | 770.00 | |
CM-aluminum-aerosol-containers | Aluminum Aerosol Containers | 75 | 750.00 | |
CM-other-aluminum-packaging | Other Aluminum Packaging | 74 | 740.00 | |
CM-clear-glass | Clear Glass | 45 | 450.00 | |
CM-coloured-glass | Coloured Glass | 45 | 450.00 |
The most and least expensive categories
These are the 5 categories with the highest and the lowest published rate in Alberta for 2026. The ranking uses the per-tonne figure where the schedule can be converted, so every row is on the same scale.
| Rank | Category | Published rate | CAD per tonne |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Expanded Polystyrene | 364 | 3,640.00 |
| 2 | LDPE/HDPE Film | 198 | 1,980.00 |
| 3 | LDPE/HDPE Film Carry-Out Bags | 198 | 1,980.00 |
| 4 | Plastic Laminates | 167 | 1,670.00 |
| 5 | Non-Expanded Polystyrene | 165 | 1,650.00 |
| Rank | Category | Published rate | CAD per tonne |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Magazines and Catalogues | 31 | 310.00 |
| 2 | Directories | 31 | 310.00 |
| 3 | Boxboard and Other Paper Packaging | 40 | 400.00 |
| 4 | Coloured Glass | 45 | 450.00 |
| 5 | Clear Glass | 45 | 450.00 |
Across the schedule the spread between the highest and the lowest rate is 3,330.00 CAD per tonne, a factor of 11.7. The mean rate is 1,006.36 and the median 890.00 CAD per tonne. These are plain averages over the listed categories, not weighted by tonnage.
Change from 2025
33 categories are priced in both the 2025 and the 2026 schedules for Alberta. Of these, 26 rose, 4 fell and 3 did not change; the mean change is 7.4 %. The table compares the rates category by category.
| Category | 2025 (Canadian cents per kilogram) | 2026 (Canadian cents per kilogram) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newspapers | 84 | 83 | -1.2 % |
| Newsprint (inserts and circulars) | 84 | 83 | -1.2 % |
| Magazines and Catalogues | 33 | 31 | -6.1 % |
| Directories | 33 | 31 | -6.1 % |
| Other Printed Materials | 89 | 89 | 0.0 % |
| Purchased Posters, Calendars, Greeting Cards and Envelopes | 89 | 89 | 0.0 % |
| Paper for General Use | 89 | 89 | 0.0 % |
| Kraft Paper Carry-Out Bags | 69 | 101 | 46.4 % |
| Kraft Paper - Non-Laminated | 69 | 101 | 46.4 % |
| Corrugated Cardboard | 69 | 70 | 1.4 % |
| Boxboard and Other Paper Packaging | 38 | 40 | 5.3 % |
| Gable Top Containers | 85 | 91 | 7.1 % |
| Paper Laminates | 85 | 91 | 7.1 % |
| Aseptic Containers | 85 | 91 | 7.1 % |
| PET Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres | 121 | 125 | 3.3 % |
| PET Containers, Jars and Jugs >= 5 Litres | 121 | 125 | 3.3 % |
| PET Thermoform Containers < 5 Litres | 121 | 125 | 3.3 % |
| HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres | 48 | 63 | 31.3 % |
| HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs >= 5 Litres | 48 | 63 | 31.3 % |
| Expanded Polystyrene | 353 | 364 | 3.1 % |
| Non-Expanded Polystyrene | 146 | 165 | 13.0 % |
| Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) < 5 Litres | 97 | 102 | 5.2 % |
| Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) >= 5 Litres | 97 | 102 | 5.2 % |
| LDPE/HDPE Film | 197 | 198 | 0.5 % |
| LDPE/HDPE Film Carry-Out Bags | 197 | 198 | 0.5 % |
| Plastic Laminates | 163 | 167 | 2.5 % |
| Other Steel Containers and Packaging | 66 | 69 | 4.5 % |
| Steel Aerosol Containers | 56 | 59 | 5.4 % |
| Aluminum Food Containers | 72 | 77 | 6.9 % |
| Aluminum Aerosol Containers | 70 | 75 | 7.1 % |
| Other Aluminum Packaging | 70 | 74 | 5.7 % |
| Clear Glass | 44 | 45 | 2.3 % |
| Coloured Glass | 44 | 45 | 2.3 % |
The 2027 schedule for Alberta follows. Of 33 categories priced in both, 12 rise, 21 fall and 0 stay the same; its page shows each change.
How it compares
Other years of the same programme
Instica also holds these schedules for Alberta. Each page shows the rates of that year.
Every priced category against its own schedule
The 2026 schedule for Alberta prices 33 categories. Each one below is set against the other rates of the same schedule: its place in the ranking and its distance from the schedule mean.
Alberta 2026: Newspapers is charged 83 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 830.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 19 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.82 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves -1.2 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 6.4 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Newsprint (inserts and circulars) is charged 83 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 830.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 19 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.82 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves -1.2 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 22.1 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Magazines and Catalogues is charged 31 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 310.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 32 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.31 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves -6.1 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -18.4 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Directories is charged 31 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 310.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 32 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.31 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves -6.1 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -18.4 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Other Printed Materials is charged 89 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 890.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 16 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.88 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 0.0 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 3.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Purchased Posters, Calendars, Greeting Cards and Envelopes is charged 89 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 890.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 16 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.88 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 0.0 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 3.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Paper for General Use is charged 89 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 890.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 16 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.88 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 0.0 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 3.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Kraft Paper Carry-Out Bags is charged 101 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,010.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 11 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.00 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 46.4 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -7.3 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Kraft Paper - Non-Laminated is charged 101 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,010.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 11 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.00 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 46.4 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -7.3 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Corrugated Cardboard is charged 70 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 700.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 24 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.70 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 1.4 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -12.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Boxboard and Other Paper Packaging is charged 40 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 400.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 31 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.40 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 5.3 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -16.7 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Gable Top Containers is charged 91 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 910.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 13 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.90 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 7.1 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 19.7 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Paper Laminates is charged 91 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 910.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 13 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.90 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 7.1 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 19.7 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Aseptic Containers is charged 91 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 910.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 13 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.90 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 7.1 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 19.7 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: PET Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres is charged 125 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,250.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 6 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.24 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 3.3 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 3.3 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: PET Containers, Jars and Jugs >= 5 Litres is charged 125 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,250.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 6 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.24 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 3.3 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 3.3 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: PET Thermoform Containers < 5 Litres is charged 125 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,250.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 6 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.24 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 3.3 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 3.3 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres is charged 63 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 630.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 26 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.63 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 31.3 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -25.9 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs >= 5 Litres is charged 63 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 630.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 26 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.63 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 31.3 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -25.9 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Expanded Polystyrene is charged 364 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 3,640.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 1 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 3.62 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 3.1 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 14.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Non-Expanded Polystyrene is charged 165 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,650.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 5 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.64 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 13.0 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 17.0 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) < 5 Litres is charged 102 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,020.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 9 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.01 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 5.2 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 8.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) >= 5 Litres is charged 102 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,020.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 9 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.01 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 5.2 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 8.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: LDPE/HDPE Film is charged 198 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,980.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 2 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.97 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 0.5 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 12.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: LDPE/HDPE Film Carry-Out Bags is charged 198 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,980.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 2 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.97 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 0.5 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 12.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Plastic Laminates is charged 167 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 1,670.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 4 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 1.66 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 2.5 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -4.0 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Other Steel Containers and Packaging is charged 69 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 690.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 25 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.69 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 4.5 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 11.3 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Steel Aerosol Containers is charged 59 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 590.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 28 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.59 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 5.4 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 18.0 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Aluminum Food Containers is charged 77 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 770.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 21 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.77 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 6.9 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -21.4 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Aluminum Aerosol Containers is charged 75 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 750.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 22 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.75 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 7.1 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -23.5 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Other Aluminum Packaging is charged 74 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 740.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 23 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.74 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 5.7 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves -22.9 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Clear Glass is charged 45 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 450.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 29 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.45 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 2.3 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 9.8 % in the 2026 schedule.
Alberta 2026: Coloured Glass is charged 45 Canadian cents per kilogram, which is 450.00 CAD per tonne. In the 2026 schedule it ranks 29 of 33 priced categories from the highest rate down, at 0.45 times the schedule mean of 1,006.36 CAD per tonne. Against the 2025 schedule the same category moves 2.3 % in the 2026 schedule. Against the 2027 schedule the same category moves 9.8 % in the 2026 schedule.
Fees at standard weights
The same engine that runs the fee calculator on this site prices each category of the 2026 schedule for Alberta at four standard weights, in CAD. These are estimates built from the published rates; they leave out modulation, flat tiers and any other fee.
| Category | 100 g (CAD) | 1 kg (CAD) | 10 kg (CAD) | 1 tonne (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newspapers | CA$0.0830 | CA$0.8300 | CA$8.30 | CA$830.00 |
| Newsprint (inserts and circulars) | CA$0.0830 | CA$0.8300 | CA$8.30 | CA$830.00 |
| Magazines and Catalogues | CA$0.0310 | CA$0.3100 | CA$3.10 | CA$310.00 |
| Directories | CA$0.0310 | CA$0.3100 | CA$3.10 | CA$310.00 |
| Other Printed Materials | CA$0.0890 | CA$0.8900 | CA$8.90 | CA$890.00 |
| Purchased Posters, Calendars, Greeting Cards and Envelopes | CA$0.0890 | CA$0.8900 | CA$8.90 | CA$890.00 |
| Paper for General Use | CA$0.0890 | CA$0.8900 | CA$8.90 | CA$890.00 |
| Kraft Paper Carry-Out Bags | CA$0.1010 | CA$1.01 | CA$10.10 | CA$1,010.00 |
| Kraft Paper - Non-Laminated | CA$0.1010 | CA$1.01 | CA$10.10 | CA$1,010.00 |
| Corrugated Cardboard | CA$0.0700 | CA$0.7000 | CA$7.00 | CA$700.00 |
| Boxboard and Other Paper Packaging | CA$0.0400 | CA$0.4000 | CA$4.00 | CA$400.00 |
| Gable Top Containers | CA$0.0910 | CA$0.9100 | CA$9.10 | CA$910.00 |
| Paper Laminates | CA$0.0910 | CA$0.9100 | CA$9.10 | CA$910.00 |
| Aseptic Containers | CA$0.0910 | CA$0.9100 | CA$9.10 | CA$910.00 |
| PET Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres | CA$0.1250 | CA$1.25 | CA$12.50 | CA$1,250.00 |
| PET Containers, Jars and Jugs >= 5 Litres | CA$0.1250 | CA$1.25 | CA$12.50 | CA$1,250.00 |
| PET Thermoform Containers < 5 Litres | CA$0.1250 | CA$1.25 | CA$12.50 | CA$1,250.00 |
| HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres | CA$0.0630 | CA$0.6300 | CA$6.30 | CA$630.00 |
| HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs >= 5 Litres | CA$0.0630 | CA$0.6300 | CA$6.30 | CA$630.00 |
| Expanded Polystyrene | CA$0.3640 | CA$3.64 | CA$36.40 | CA$3,640.00 |
| Non-Expanded Polystyrene | CA$0.1650 | CA$1.65 | CA$16.50 | CA$1,650.00 |
| Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) < 5 Litres | CA$0.1020 | CA$1.02 | CA$10.20 | CA$1,020.00 |
| Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) >= 5 Litres | CA$0.1020 | CA$1.02 | CA$10.20 | CA$1,020.00 |
| LDPE/HDPE Film | CA$0.1980 | CA$1.98 | CA$19.80 | CA$1,980.00 |
| LDPE/HDPE Film Carry-Out Bags | CA$0.1980 | CA$1.98 | CA$19.80 | CA$1,980.00 |
| Plastic Laminates | CA$0.1670 | CA$1.67 | CA$16.70 | CA$1,670.00 |
| Other Steel Containers and Packaging | CA$0.0690 | CA$0.6900 | CA$6.90 | CA$690.00 |
| Steel Aerosol Containers | CA$0.0590 | CA$0.5900 | CA$5.90 | CA$590.00 |
| Aluminum Food Containers | CA$0.0770 | CA$0.7700 | CA$7.70 | CA$770.00 |
| Aluminum Aerosol Containers | CA$0.0750 | CA$0.7500 | CA$7.50 | CA$750.00 |
| Other Aluminum Packaging | CA$0.0740 | CA$0.7400 | CA$7.40 | CA$740.00 |
| Clear Glass | CA$0.0450 | CA$0.4500 | CA$4.50 | CA$450.00 |
| Coloured Glass | CA$0.0450 | CA$0.4500 | CA$4.50 | CA$450.00 |
Dates this schedule carries
The dates on file for the 2026 schedule of Alberta, with the date Instica last checked the rates against the source.
| Item | On file |
|---|---|
| Effective from | January 1, 2026 |
| Effective until | December 31, 2026 |
| Rates last checked | November 5, 2026 |
| Categories with a verified rate | 33 |
| Categories not yet published | 0 |
What is not yet published
| Item | Reason | Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Program-specific eco-modulation adjustments | Not published in the report read | Not yet published |
What the schedule covers
Circular Materials Alberta (ARMA PPP) sets the packaging fees for Alberta in 2026. It applies from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026, and every rate is stated in Canadian cents per kilogram, in CAD.
The schedule lists 33 categories. Every category carries a published rate.
Instica read the schedule from the publisher's own document and last retrieved it on November 5, 2026. Rates keep the precision with which they were published. Where the publisher quotes a different weight unit, the tables add a per-tonne column, converted exactly, so schedules can be set side by side.
Original wording
Circular Materials in Alberta Fee Schedule (Cents/Kg)Who pays and when
The fee schedule is only half of the picture. Whether a producer pays it, and by when, depends on the rules of Alberta. This section reads them from Instica's verified record of the jurisdiction.
The regime is: Extended Producer Responsibility Regulation, Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (packaging, paper products). The regulator is Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA).
Thresholds
2 thresholds decide whether a producer must register, pay or report, or may use a simpler route. Each row gives the measure, the amount and what happens at it.
| Measure | Amount | Effect | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 1,500,000 CAD | Exempt below | Alberta revenue |
| Tonnage supplied | 9 tonne | Reduced duty | residential supply per year (9 t paper; 2 t rigid plastic; 2 t flexible plastic; 1 t glass; 1 t metal) |
Exemptions
1 exemption exists. The last column says whether the producer has to apply for it or whether it applies automatically.
| Exemption | Description | Application needed |
|---|---|---|
under revenue | Producers under CAD 1,500,000 Alberta revenue are exempt | No |
Dates
4 dates fall in this regime. Dates that the source has not published yet are shown as not yet published.
| What | Date | Period covered |
|---|---|---|
| Report | Not yet published | preceding calendar year (January 1 to December 31) |
| rate publication | Not yet published | current calendar year's ARMA oversight fees (based on supply data from two years earlier) |
| Payment | Not yet published | current calendar year's ARMA oversight fees |
| Other | October 1, 2026 | – |
Data period and invoice timing
The 2026 schedule for Alberta is effective from January 1, 2026 until December 31, 2026. The publisher does not state a separate data period, so use the supply of the fee year.
Rates are in CAD. A rate changes only when the publisher issues a new schedule, so a figure on this page stays valid for the year shown and is not adjusted for inflation or exchange rates by Instica.
The scheme sends the invoice. When an invoice and this page differ, the invoice is what you owe; use the page to check the rate per category and to estimate the fee before the invoice arrives.
How to read this schedule
Every row of the Alberta 2026 schedule is a price for one category of packaging. The unit is Canadian cents per kilogram: the rate is what the scheme charges for each unit of that category that a producer places on the market. Instica shows the figure exactly as Circular Materials Alberta (ARMA PPP) publishes it, with its source and the date Instica read it.
The source states these rates in Canadian cents, so one hundred of them make one whole unit of CAD. Instica does not round or restate a published figure. For comparison only, Instica also shows each rate as CAD per tonne. That column is arithmetic on the published figure with exact unit factors; the schedule itself is in Canadian cents per kilogram, and the scheme's own invoice decides what is charged.
Match a category by the scheme's own classification, not by how you describe the product. A bottle and its closure can fall into two rows, and the same material can sit in different rows depending on what it is used for. The code in the first column is the scheme's code, and the material column shows the material the source assigns to it.
All 33 rows of this schedule carry a published rate.
Estimating with this schedule
- Weigh each packaging component on its own and note its material.
- Find the category row that matches the component under the scheme's classification.
- Convert your weight to the unit of the row, Canadian cents per kilogram, or compare in the per-tonne column when you only need a ranking.
- Multiply the weight by the rate. Instica keeps the rate, the weight and the source together so the estimate can be checked.
- Add the flat fees or other fees the schedule lists, if they apply to you.
- Review the total, then sign and submit it yourself in the scheme's portal.
Checking an invoice against this schedule
An invoice from Circular Materials Alberta (ARMA PPP) for 2026 should be explainable from three things: the weights you reported, the category each weight was placed in and the rate of that category. When an invoice does not match your estimate, check these in this order.
First, the unit. A rate in Canadian cents per kilogram applied to a weight in another unit gives a result that is wrong by a constant factor. Second, the category: a different row can differ by a large amount for the same weight. Third, the period: this page covers the 2026 schedule, and a producer whose reporting period straddles two years may be charged under both.
Instica does not know your contract. Taxes, rebates, minimum charges or membership fees may sit outside the schedule on this page, in CAD or another currency. The schedule is a published reference; the scheme's invoice decides what you owe, and a query about an invoice belongs with the scheme.
Terms used on this page
- Producer
- The business that places packaged goods on the market and is therefore responsible for the packaging, under the rules of the jurisdiction.
- Scheme or organisation
- The body that collects fees from producers and pays for collection and recycling. A jurisdiction may have one, several or none.
- Fee schedule
- A published table of rates per category of packaging, with the unit, the currency and the period it covers.
- Category
- The class of packaging a rate applies to, as the scheme defines it. Categories are usually based on material, sometimes on use.
- Estimate
- A figure Instica prepares from your weights and a rate. It is not an invoice and not a filing; the scheme decides what is charged.
- Not yet published
- A value the source has not released or that Instica has not been able to read and verify. It is shown with its reason and is never replaced by a guess.
Questions and answers
What is the Alberta packaging fee schedule for 2026?
It is the list of rates that Circular Materials Alberta (ARMA PPP) charges producers in Alberta for packaging placed on the market in 2026. This page reproduces 33 categories with the rate the publisher states, in Canadian cents per kilogram, and links every figure to its source document.
Which unit are the 2026 rates in?
They are published in Canadian cents per kilogram, in CAD. Instica shows every rate in that unit with the precision of the source. The tables also give CAD per tonne, converted exactly, so schedules that quote pounds or kilograms can be compared.
Which category is the most expensive in Alberta?
In the 2026 schedule the highest published rate is 364 for Expanded Polystyrene and the lowest is 31 for Magazines and Catalogues, both in Canadian cents per kilogram. The extremes table above lists the five highest and five lowest categories.
Can the rates change during the year?
A published schedule changes only when the publisher issues a new version. Instica retrieved this one on November 5, 2026. If the publisher revises it, the page is rebuilt from the new source and the retrieval date moves.
How do the 2026 rates compare with 2025?
The change section compares every category priced in both years, with the rate in each year and the change as a percentage. The text above it counts how many rates rose, fell or stayed the same.
Who files the report and pays the fee?
The producer does. Instica measures, estimates and prepares the figures; you check them, sign and submit them yourself in the scheme's own portal. Instica does not file for you and does not store portal credentials.
Can I use this page to budget my fee?
Yes, as an estimate. Find your category in the rates table, multiply the rate by your weight in the same unit, and compare the result with the worked costs. The scheme's invoice decides what you owe.
How current are these figures?
Instica retrieved the schedule on November 5, 2026. The page shows the retrieval date, the publisher and a short quote from the source next to each rate, so you can check a figure against the original before you rely on it.
How Instica uses this schedule
When you add packaging for Alberta, Instica looks up the category in this 2026 schedule, multiplies the rate by the weight you measured and shows the estimated fee with the rate, the source and the data-quality tier of the weight.
Instica measures, estimates and prepares. You review the figures, sign the report and submit it yourself in the scheme's portal. Instica does not submit for you and never stores portal credentials.
Sources
- Alberta 2026: Circular Materials Alberta (ARMA PPP) retrieved
Original wording: Circular Materials in Alberta Fee Schedule (Cents/Kg)
Original wording: Newspapers 83 84 -1.2%
Original wording: Newsprint (inserts and circulars) 83 84 -1.2%
Original wording: Magazines and Catalogues 31 33 -6.1%
Original wording: Directories 31 33 -6.1%
Original wording: Other Printed Materials 89 89 0.0%
Original wording: Purchased Posters, Calendars, Greeting Cards and Envelopes 89 89 0.0%
Original wording: Paper for General Use 89 89 0.0%
Original wording: Kraft Paper Carry-Out Bags 101 69 46.4%
Original wording: Kraft Paper - Non-Laminated 101 69 46.4%
Original wording: Corrugated Cardboard 70 69 1.4%
Original wording: Boxboard and Other Paper Packaging 40 38 5.3%
Original wording: Gable Top Containers 91 85 7.1 %
Original wording: Paper Laminates 91 85 7.1 %
Original wording: Aseptic Containers 91 85 7.1 %
Original wording: PET Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres 125 121 3.3%
Original wording: PET Thermoform Containers < 5 Litres 125 121 3.3%
Original wording: HDPE Containers, Jars and Jugs < 5 Litres 63 48 31.3%
Original wording: Expanded Polystyrene 364 353 3.1%
Original wording: Non-Expanded Polystyrene 165 146 13.0%
Original wording: Other Plastic Packaging (not listed Above) < 5 Litres 102 97 5.2%
Original wording: LDPE/HDPE Film 198 197 0.5%
Original wording: LDPE/HDPE Film Carry-Out Bags 198 197 0.5%
Original wording: Plastic Laminates 167 163 2.5%
Original wording: Other Steel Containers and Packaging 69 66 4.5%
Original wording: Steel Aerosol Containers 59 56 5.4%
Original wording: Aluminum Food Containers 77 72 6.9%
Original wording: Aluminum Aerosol Containers 75 70 7.1 %
Original wording: Other Aluminum Packaging 74 70 5.7%
Original wording: Clear Glass 45 44 2.3%
Original wording: Coloured Glass 45 44 2.3%
- Alberta: the legal regime retrieved
Original wording: PPP Producers shall submit an annual report to the Authority no later than June 30th each year.
- Alberta: Thresholds retrieved
Original wording: has an annual gross revenue in Alberta less than one million and five hundred thousand dollars $1,500,000.
Original wording: less than each of the amounts listed for the following materials: (a) 9 tonnes of paper per calendar year; (b) 2 tonnes of rigid plastic
Original wording: A PPP Producer must provide, by October 1, 2026, to single-family dwellings in Registered Communities that were not receiving recycling service
The free plan is enough to start. We estimate and prepare; you sign and submit.