Canadian recycler EFS-plastics Inc. has completed a US$12 million expansion of its facility in Lethbridge, Alberta, transforming it from a regional sorting operation into an integrated plastics recycling hub. The upgraded facility can process HDPE, PP and, for the first time, PET on a single wash line.

Expanded recycling capacity

EFS is currently ramping up HDPE and PP production, while PET flake capacity is expected to come online this fall. The company plans to begin producing food-grade post-consumer recycled (PCR) material for all three polymers in 2027, subject to regulatory approvals.

Flexible washing system

One of the key features of the project is its flexible batch-style washing system, which can switch between different polymer streams depending on feedstock availability, market conditions and EPR requirements.

This approach gives the facility greater flexibility to adjust its production mix as the availability and value of different plastic streams change.

Regional supply and logistics

The expansion also brings processing closer to post-consumer plastic supplies from Oregon, Washington and California. This is expected to reduce cross-country transportation and associated costs and emissions.

The investment comes at a challenging time for the recycling industry, with recyclers facing difficult market conditions and facilities closing in several regions.

Investment amid market challenges

EFS CEO Martin Vogt described the current situation in the recycling sector:

“Recycling currently is not a business model, it’s a passion.”

— Martin Vogt, CEO, EFS-plastics Inc.

The company’s investment illustrates how flexible recycling infrastructure and EPR policies could work together to strengthen domestic PCR production.

With the expansion, EFS-plastics is moving from a regional sorting operation toward a more integrated recycling model capable of processing HDPE, PP and PET within a single facility.