Core and EHC Fees
This site may display additional charges tied to particular automotive parts or chemicals, generally termed "Core" or "EHC". Please see below for clarification regarding these terms. If you have concerns or questions about whether a particular Core/EHC fee is refundable, please consult one of our stores for clarification prior to making your purchase.
Cores for Component Parts
In the case of actual vehicle component parts (like axels, brake calipers, etc.) these charges represent a charge that is refunded back to the customer when a new part is purchased and after the old part is returned. Core charges in this context are intended to encourage customers to bring back the old part so that it may be remanufactured. Note that there are frequently rules around how such a core is returned, including using the manufacturer's box that the new part was purchased in. Failure to precisely follow the manufacturer's instructions will risk rendering the core non-refundable.
Cores for Consumables (EHC)
In context of consumables such as filters or chemicals, or other items deemed by the federal government to require a charge in order to facilitate safe disposal, the term "Core" may be used interchangeably with "EHC" or Environmental Handling Change. Core values in this case are payable by the customer and are NOT refundable regardless of any terminology to the contrary. These charges are determined by the government to support recycling and disposal efforts and the fees stay within the recycling/disposal industry.
NEW Environmental Handling Fee
As of October 1, 2025, Product Recycling Alberta’s Household Special Waste (HSP) Program has been activated.
As part of this new program, certain products sold at our stores are now subject to an Environmental Handling Fee (EHF) or Environmental Handling Charge (EHC). The EHC is collected by retailers and remitted to the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA).
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
What is EHC?
- EHC stands for Environmental Handling Charge.
- It's a fee added to the price of certain products, like antifreeze, to fund their responsible recycling.
- In Alberta, the EHC program is managed by ARMA, which is a non-profit organization.
Why is EHC applied to antifreeze?
- Antifreeze is a regulated product under Alberta's Used Oil Recycling Program because it's considered a hazardous material that needs proper handling and disposal.
- The EHC helps cover the costs associated with collecting, transporting, and recycling used antifreeze and its containers.
How does the EHC system work in Alberta?
- Retailers collect the fee: Retailers that sell antifreeze products collect the EHC from consumers at the point of sale.
- Remittance to ARMA: Retailers are responsible for remitting the collected EHC funds to ARMA.
- Funding the program: ARMA uses these funds to support the Used Oil Recycling Program, including:
- Maintaining collection facilities and depots.
- Providing recycling services for used antifreeze and containers.
- Educating the public about proper disposal methods.
Key points about EHC in Alberta:
- The EHC is not a tax and does not go to the government.
- The fees are used to operate the used oil recycling system, which includes antifreeze.
- The fees are designed to ensure that used antifreeze is properly managed and diverted from landfills.
Where can I find more information?
