Calgary's blue carts and community recycling depots can now take a wider range of household packaging, as of October 1. The change comes from the second phase of Alberta's Extended Producer Responsibility rules, which put manufacturers and brands in charge of the packaging they supply and aim for the same materials to be accepted in recycling programs across the province.

Four categories of packaging that used to end up in the trash are now accepted: foam items like egg cartons, takeout containers and foam blocks; aerosol cans for things like cooking spray, sunscreen and hairspray; flexible plastic such as chip bags and granola bar wrappers; and tubes, including toothpaste and deodorant containers.

"It's a practical improvement that makes recycling easier and more convenient for households across the city," said Sharon Howland, Leader, Program Management, Waste & Recycling Services.

Anything going in the cart should be emptied and rinsed or wiped out, and placed in loose rather than bagged. Collection days aren't changing.

Residents won't see any difference on their ENMAX bills. With producers now covering most recycling costs, the city already lowered the single-family blue cart fee on April 1, 2025, saving each household $7.17 a year.

Multi-family buildings are included too. Property managers and condo boards can register with Circular Materials to get free collection and the updated list of accepted materials.

The full list is at calgary.ca/recyclemore, and 311 can answer questions.