International Journal of Waste Resources

The state of carpet in Canada: Paving the path towards sustainability and circular economy solutions

15^th World Congress and Expo on Recycling

October 16-17, 2023 | Vancouver, Canada

Lilly Le, Research Analyst

Viking Recycling/ Circular Partners, Canada

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Int J Waste Resour

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem:Carpet constitutes a significant portion of plastic Construction, Renovation, and Demolition (CRD) waste disposed of in Canadian landfills by weight. This heavy petroleum-based plastic product intersects building materials, textiles, and plastic, making its categorization challenging, often overlooked, and wrongly placed under other waste categories. Consequently, carpet manufacturers' responsibilities remain deferred repeatedly. Each carpet has a unique composition of fibers, fillers, and backings, typically combining various polymer types, leading to the release of microplastics in the form of microfibers during the manufacturing, use and disposal phases, posing risks to the environment and human health. The waste hierarchy for carpet waste management prioritizes prevention, reuse, and recycling to minimize environmental impacts. However, the current management options for carpet waste in North America are limited, resulting in 90% of end-of-life carpet ending up in landfills. To address these challenges, implementing Individual Producer Responsibility (IPR) programs tailored for carpet in Canada emerges as a promising solution. IPR programs incentivize individual manufacturers to take responsibility for their own product's end-of-life management, fostering environmental accountability. However, if manufacturers encounter challenges or are unable to participate in IPR programs, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs that involve shared financial responsibility are the next best option. Currently, carpet and other construction materials lack EPR policies in Canada, leading to suboptimal waste management practices. California and New York in the US have taken steps towards implementing carpet EPR laws, promoting recycling and diversion rates. The carpet industry must embrace circular design principles, prioritize recyclability, and explore reuse opportunities. Legislation and regulations need to address challenges in carpet waste management and promote IPR and/ or EPR programs to foster environmental responsibility among manufacturers. Collaboration among industry stakeholders and a dedicated association for sustainable carpet business in Canada are essential for knowledge sharing and driving positive change in the industry.