MCRs in the Community - Apply to be a Master Composter Recycler

Want to make Edmonton a more sustainable city? Volunteer as a Master Composter Recycler!

Applications for the 2025 Master Composter Recycler training have now closed. You can still sign up now to be added to the 2026 waitlist. Waste Services will keep your application for the 2026 MCR Training and follow up with you when we begin application review in October 2025. 

MCRs are community advocates for waste reduction. They encourage friends, family, neighbours, and co-workers to take specific actions that reduce waste.

This is a "learn and serve" volunteer program. It includes both training and volunteering in the community.

  • Complete 35 hours of free training
  • Learn about carts, recycling, reuse, home composting, and how to reduce waste
  • Meet other green-minded Edmontonians
  • Volunteer 25 hours within one year
  • Inspire others to reduce waste

Fill out the application to apply to be an MCR in 2026. Visit edmonton.ca/mcrp for up-to-date information, including a schedule of training classes.

Who should apply?
MCRs are skilled volunteers. They help friends, family, neighbours, and coworkers to reduce, reuse, recycle, and compost.

Successful MCRs are:

  • Passionate about waste reduction and sustainability
  • Engaged in the community (they make and maintain community connections)
  • Reliable volunteers who take initiative
  • Inspire others to make personal changes

Eligibility Requirements

  • Will volunteer at least 25 hours within one year of training
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Resident of Edmonton
  • Able to commute to the training locations (locations listed in the 2025 Training Schedule)
  • Available for training dates (see the 2025 Training Schedule)
  • Competent in English & basic computer skills (e.g. email & internet)
  • Note: A Police Information Check and/or reference checks may be required for this role.

What is involved with the training?
The MCR program is a "learn and serve" volunteer program. It includes both training and volunteer experience.

Volunteers complete 35 hours of training over 9 classes, from March to May (2025 Training Schedule). There is one follow-up class in September. Training includes classroom sessions, virtual classes, facility tours, and hands-on activities.

This training covers all about waste in Edmonton, Edmonton's waste system, and how to effectively encourage others to sustainable waste habits.

How do MCRs volunteer?

MCRs are self-directed volunteers. They complete at least 25 hours of volunteering within one year of their training.

There are many different volunteer activities to fit the skills, interests, and availability of each volunteer. These activities always involve encouraging Edmontonians to reduce waste:

  • Chat with a neighbour about Eco Stations
  • Post about recycling on social media
  • Show a friend what should be recycled
  • Host a display at a community event
  • Write an article for a newsletter
  • Start worm composting at work
  • Organize a discussion with coworkers