• In 2025, the world generated 62 million tons of e-waste with only 22-25% formally collected and recycled. Residual is informally handled, dumped and exported. [12]

• Research by the United Nations Institute for Research and Training projects that e-waste will reach 82 Mt by 2030 with formal collection further declining to 20% unless mass intervention proceeds. [13]

• E-waste contains extremely valuable materials that could be repurposed (copper, gold) and toxic substances (lead and mercury) which pose health and environment risks. [14]

• Canadian provinces retain several Extended Producer Responsibility frameworks which bills the cost and logistics of e-waste collection to producers. [15]

• All Canadian provinces (except Nunavut) have EPR systems managed by producer responsibility organizations like the Electronic Products Recycling Association (EPRA) in Ontario and the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) in BC which are accompanied by provincial oversight. [15]

• However, public data on how much and what is collected in Canada is scarce, making waste recycling needs assessment a challenge 

  • While Statistics Canada readily reports non-hazardous waste, specific e-waste figures are unavailable.

As a result, we need to explore collaboration with provincial EPR bodies to understand e-waste volumes at current collection points and investigate the gaps in pickup coverage → we can then fill these gaps with our own collection points. 

Our Collection Points aim to target the following action items: 

• • Bridge the 78% gap between total e‑waste generated and what is actually recycled 

  • Improve recycling accessibility through centralizing collection points in university campuses, community centres, and local hotspots.

  • Provide and supplement current available recycling data through track volumes, usage and demographic reach tracked by collection points.

  • Cultivate a circular economy culture where the visual presence of bins reinforces sustainable behaviors. 

• Under BC’s Recycling Regulation (Environmental Management Act), producers of electronic products must submit and follow a government-approved EPR plan. The EPRA  acts as their industry-led oversight agency. [16]

• Producers are must operate lifecycle-focused management—from design to end-of-life—and file an annual plan, with third-party validation on performance metrics. [16]

• Outcome: Ensures province-wide collection systems, proper recycling, transparency and ultimately shifts costs onto producers/consumers.

Ontario’s Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority (RPRA) 

• Ontario’s Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulation obligates producers to directly manage e-waste (similar to BC), with RPRA oversight. [17]

• Producers must register with RPRA, fund and operate collection networks, and file performance reports. [17]

• Outcome: reduce landfill disposal, increase transparency, and ensure environmental protection 

• Electronic collection bins and public drop-off require environmental permissions at provincial/municipal level, regulated by acts like CEPA. [18] 

• In Ontario, businesses/organizations may require environmental permissions to place a collection point. [17]

• General requirements may include (but differ by province): site assessment, waste handling protocols, signage, spill containment, safety compliance, and adherence to local zoning bylaws. Specific requirements vary by municipality but typically follow provincial guidelines. [18]

• Accessibility: Sites must be easily accessible to the target community, ideally near public transportation and main roads, but not directly on them to avoid traffic issues.[1][2]

• Safety: Choose locations that are secure and have low crime rates. Fenced or enclosed areas with emergency exits are preferred.[1][2]

• Visibility and Suitability: Sites should be visible, have appropriate neighbouring businesses, and not be too close to markets or residential areas to facilitate crowd control and minimize complaints.[1][2]

• Existing Infrastructure: Consider using community centers, schools, or other public buildings to leverage existing facilities and reduce costs.[2]

• Environmental and Social Impact: Avoid locations near sensitive areas (e.g., water bodies, residential zones) and ensure the site aligns with community needs and land use plans.[3][4]

• Proximity to Transportation: Ensure the site is close to major transport routes for efficient inbound and outbound movement of goods.[5][6]

• Traffic Flow: Analyze traffic patterns to avoid congestion and ensure smooth delivery and pickup operations.[7][8]

• Utilities and Space: Confirm the site has the necessary utilities and adequate space for storage, queuing, and distribution activities.[2][6]

• Budget Planning: Factor in land acquisition, site preparation, construction, utilities, and ongoing operational costs.[6][9]

• Financing Options: Explore loans, grants, or partnerships with local governments, NGOs, or private entities. Community infrastructure (e.g., schools, churches) may offer cost-effective options.[1][2]

• Operational Efficiency: Selecting sites with existing infrastructure can reduce capital expenditure and speed up implementation.[2][9]