Cylinder Collective launches EPR program for gas cylinder recycling in Connecticut

Residents of Connecticut will soon have a new, environmentally friendly option for disposing of gas cylinders, thanks to the launch of the Cylinder Collective's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program set to begin on October 1, 2025. This initiative, discussed during the Northwest Hills Council of Governments (NHCOG) meeting, aims to provide a sustainable solution for the recycling of smaller gas cylinders used for camping, grilling, and other household purposes.

The Cylinder Collective, a nonprofit organization formed in response to EPR legislation passed in 2022, is focused on creating and supporting residential recycling programs for these cylinders. The program will allow residents to dispose of their gas cylinders at no cost, alleviating the financial burden on municipalities and reducing environmental impact.

Kim O'Rourke, the State Program Coordinator for the Cylinder Collective, outlined the program's goals during the meeting. The initiative will work with local waste collection systems to ensure proper disposal and recycling of cylinders, which include those used for propane, helium, isobutane, and butane. The program is designed to be convenient, with collection points at transfer stations, household hazardous waste facilities, and various events throughout the state.

As part of the rollout, the Cylinder Collective will also implement a statewide education and outreach campaign to inform residents about safe disposal practices and the new collection system. This campaign will include resources such as a searchable collection locations tool and a municipal toolkit with promotional materials.

The program is expected to include approximately 85% to 90% of producers selling gas cylinders in Connecticut, who will be required to participate in a stewardship organization to continue selling their products in the state. This collaborative effort aims to streamline the recycling process and ensure that residents have easy access to disposal options.

The Cylinder Collective is currently in the early stages of program development and is actively seeking feedback from municipalities to tailor the initiative to community needs. With the program's launch on the horizon, stakeholders are optimistic about its potential to enhance recycling efforts and promote environmental sustainability across Connecticut.