B.C. small appliance program phasing in

As of April 1, 2011, the Canadian Electrical Stewardship Association (CESA) began phasing in its Small Appliance Recycling Program in British Columbia, which is the first of its kind in North America, and will see depots ready to receive small appliances beginning August 1, 2011 (updated from July 1, 2011, and in conjunction with the start-date for collection of program fees.)   

Under the phased-in plan, key program implementation tasks such as the establishment of depots, distribution of collection bins to depots, the completion and distribution of public education materials, and preparatory work with recyclers, producers and retailers – is taking place, during the first phase. According to the CESA, a phased-in implementation approach will help ensure a larger depot network with a broader geographic coverage is in place when product collection from consumers begins.  

The decision to phase in the program was made in light of the unprecedented product scope of the program, which includes more than 120 small appliance products ranging from plug-in air fresheners and electric toothbrushes to counter top microwave ovens and stand-up vacuum cleaners. Program fee collection will commence August 1, 2011.  

The Canadian Electrical Stewardship Association (CESA) was formed to manage the recycling program that covers small appliances in British Columbia. CESA is a not-for-profit product stewardship agency incorporated by the manufacturers and brand owners of small appliances who are members of the Canadian Association of Appliance Manufacturers (CAMA), the Canadian Hardware and Housewares Manufacturers Association (CHHMA) and the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM). For more information about CESA and the Small Appliance Recycling Program in BC, visit www.cesarecycling.ca.