Final Countdown: What Packaging Producers Need to Know Before May 31st

Since drafting this post, one more obstacle to navigate: if Circular Materials is your PRO, you will have noticed that the WeRecycle portal is offline until May 20th.  It is important to note that producer supply data has not been accessed or compromised - this action is a preventative measure only. As a result, the deadline for providing your supply data will be extended from the original deadline of May 31, 2025 to June 13, 2025. This will allow producers to key in their data directly on the WeRecycle Portal. If you are supplying data to Divert NS or to the RPRA via Circular Materials, the deadline remains as May 15th, SharePoint links are to be provided to meet this deadline. Reach out to Circular Materials if you have any questions or did not receive a link.

We’ve entered the final month before data is due across most of (all obligated provinces, except for Quebec) Canada’s Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs, and as always, the last stretch comes with a few important reminders. Here are the key updates, changes, and things to double-check before you hit “submit”:

1. “Packaging-Like Products” are Now Obligated in Saskatchewan

2. Update Producer/PRO Responsibilities in Divert NS and ARMA Connect

3. Upload Data Attestation Forms into WeRecycle

4. Alberta Flexible Plastics as Products Exemption

5. First Time Reporting for Yukon

   
   
   
   

1. “Packaging-Like Products” Now Obligated in Saskatchewan

As of this year, Saskatchewan requires producers to report Packaging-Like Products (PLPs) -items like aluminium trays, paper plates, and plastic utensils that serve packaging-adjacent functions and are often single-use. These weren’t previously included, so double-check your SKU categorization to ensure compliance. Manitoba and Yukon do not require PLP reporting, so the obligation is province specific. More information on SK Recycles transition plan.

2. Assign your PRO in the Divert NS and ARMA Connect Portals

In both Nova Scotia and Alberta, producers must formally assign their PRO within their respective provincial reporting portals - Divert NS and ARMA Connect. Log into both platforms and ensure that Circular Materials is selected as your designated PRO. Skipping this step could mean your submission isn't recognized as valid.

3. Upload Data Attestation Forms in Divert NS and ARMA Portals

Both Alberta and Nova Scotia now require signed data attestation forms confirming the accuracy of your reported data. These must be uploaded into the WeRecycle Portal once executed. Only an authorized signing officer or designated delegate should complete the form -so start the internal approvals process early to avoid bottlenecks.

4. Alberta Flexible Plastics as Products Exemption

A new exemption announced in April - pertaining to flexible plastic packaging in Alberta - has prompted questions regarding its effective date. Circular Materials is currently seeking further clarification from the Alberta government, however, the key takeaway is as follows: flexible plastics sold as products (e.g., cling wrap or sandwich bags) are not to be included in your 2025 report.

5. First Time Reporting for Yukon

2025 marks the first-ever reporting deadline for Yukon under its new EPR regulation. There’s no requirement to report PLPs or single-use products here—but packaging, paper products, and printed materials must be captured. Be sure to include Yukon in your provincial data breakdown.

Final Tip: Don’t Leave It to the Last Minute

Between new obligations, multiple portals, and internal sign-offs, the June 13th (formerly May 31st) reporting deadline has a lot of moving parts. Submit early, review your portal settings, and keep signed attestation forms handy.