Cameras Recycling in Calgary - Drop-Off Points and Trade-In

Cameras in Calgary covers where to recycle cameras in Calgary.

Last reviewed by Sarah Chen on 04 April 2026

Where specifically in Calgary can residents recycle cameras?

Residents of Calgary can take their old cameras to several drop-off points for recycling. The Electronics Product Stewardship Canada (EPRA) has partnered with local retailers like Staples Canada, Best Buy, and London Drugs to provide free recycling services across the city.

According to the WHO, improper e-waste disposal releases toxic substances including lead, mercury, and cadmium into soil and water.

Free Drop-Off Points for Cameras in Calgary

Cameras can be dropped off at any of the EPRA collection sites in Calgary. These include Staples Canada locations and other major electronics stores that participate in the program. Residents should check with their local store to confirm availability, as some may have specific hours or requirements.

When recycling cameras through these programmes, it's important for residents to follow a few guidelines. They must remove any batteries from the camera before dropping it off. Since batteries are considered hazardous waste and need separate disposal methods. Additionally, if the camera contains sensitive personal data, individuals should wipe this information beforehand to ensure privacy. Many stores will have instructions on how to properly prepare cameras for recycling.

According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, only 22.3% of e-waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022.

Trade-in Options for Working Cameras

For those with working cameras that they no longer want. Trade-in options are available through retailers such as Best Buy and Staples Canada. These companies offer cash or store credit in exchange for your old camera based on its condition and market value. For example, a high-end DSLR might fetch around $100 to $300 depending on the model's age and working condition.

What Happens to Recycled Cameras

Once cameras are collected at drop-off points. They undergo sorting by type and material content before being shipped to recycling facilities across Canada. These facilities recover valuable materials like metals, plastics, and circuit boards which can then be reused in manufacturing new products. The recycled components often end up back in Calgary's supply chain or in other parts of the country.

According to a 2019 report by Environment and Climate Change Canada, over 75% of electronics collected through recycling programs are diverted from landfills and processed for material recovery. This highlights the significant impact that proper camera disposal has on reducing environmental waste.

Sources

• WHO
• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024