FAQ-Waste-Paint

It is estimated that about 30 million litres of paint is sold in Alberta each year. On average, 5 to 10 percent of this ends up as waste, which can pose environmental and health risks if disposed of improperly. Leftover paints are liquid waste and are difficult for consumers to dispose of properly. Oil-based paints contain combustible materials and, in some cases, hazardous air pollutants. Older paints may contain lead, mercury, and other heavy metals.

Architectural paints, paint containers, and aerosol paints are now accepted under the provincial paint recycling program. Environmental fees ranging from ten-cents to one-dollar (depending on container size) have been placed on each product included in the paint recycling program.

Albertans can drop off their leftover paint and paint containers at municipal collection sites or local “round-up” events across the province.

A not-for-profit organization, Alberta Recycling, manages the program on behalf of Albertans. For more information about the paint recycling program or to locate a collection site or round-up event near you, visit www.albertarecycling.ca or call 1.888.999.8762 (toll free).

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