Retired Cleanfarms leader recognized for building sustainable agricultural recycling programs across Canada
The Recycling Council of Alberta (RCA) has recognized retired Cleanfarms Executive Director Barry Friesen with its prestigious Rs of Excellence Circular Champion Recognition Award. The honour celebrates his long-standing contributions to agricultural recycling, environmental stewardship, and the advancement of the circular economy in Canada.
Friesen spent many years helping develop and expand programs that recover and recycle agricultural products and materials. His work focused on reducing waste, improving recycling opportunities, and supporting sustainable practices for farmers and agricultural businesses across the country.
The award recognizes individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to waste reduction and circular economy efforts. Friesen will be formally recognized along with other recipients during the RCA Annual General Meeting on Nov. 6, 2026.
Reflecting on the recognition, Friesen said he is proud to have been part of an industry working toward a more sustainable future. He noted that organizations promoting the circular economy play an important role in protecting the environment while creating economic opportunities and supporting communities.
Industry leaders praised Friesen for his dedication and leadership throughout his career. Cleanfarms Executive Director Shane Hedderson highlighted the important role Friesen played in strengthening agricultural recycling programs. During his leadership, initiatives designed to collect and recycle agricultural materials expanded significantly, benefiting farmers and communities across Alberta and other parts of Canada.
“I’m very proud to be part of this transformative industry, and to receive this honour from the RCA: one of the great champions of circular economy in Canada, playing a pivotal role in job creation while helping to keep our environment clean,” said Friesen.
The Recycling Council of Alberta also praised Friesen's accomplishments. RCA Executive Director Jenn Koole noted that his work helped build strong partnerships and successful programs focused on recovering agricultural plastics and other materials. These initiatives have kept valuable resources in circulation and reduced the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Friesen's leadership contributed to a growing network of recycling programs that support Canadian agriculture. By encouraging the recovery and reuse of materials, these programs help farmers reduce environmental impacts while contributing to a more sustainable agricultural sector.
“It’s fitting this announcement coincides with Waste Reduction Week," said Cleanfarms Executive Director Shane Hedderson. “During Barry’s tenure, Alberta’s small container program—the first in Canada—grew significantly along with other programs across the province and country. Barry has dedicated his career to improving waste diversion efforts for Canadians, both on and off the farm, and all of us at Cleanfarms are proud of Barry for this well-earned award.”
The concept of a circular economy focuses on keeping materials and products in use for as long as possible. Instead of sending items directly to disposal sites, circular systems emphasize reuse, recycling, and recovery. Agricultural recycling programs play an important role in achieving these goals by ensuring materials such as plastics, packaging, and other farm-related products are collected and processed responsibly.
Cleanfarms has been a key organization supporting these efforts. The producer responsibility organization works to recover and recycle agricultural plastics, packaging, and products used by the farming industry. Through partnerships with industry members, farmers, and government agencies, the organization helps create practical recycling solutions that contribute to environmental sustainability.
Today, Cleanfarms continues to support recycling initiatives across several provinces, helping advance stewardship efforts in agriculture. The organization serves industries connected to crop protection, seed, fertilizer, animal health products, peat moss, animal bedding, feed, agricultural plastics, and maple tubing.
The recognition of Barry Friesen highlights the growing importance of sustainability in agriculture. As farmers and agricultural organizations continue seeking ways to reduce waste and improve resource management, leaders who have helped establish effective recycling systems are playing a valuable role in shaping the future of the industry.
“We’re delighted to recognize Barry’s remarkable contributions to agricultural recycling in Alberta. Through his leadership in producer responsibility and agricultural plastics recovery, he helped build programs and partnerships keeping valuable materials out of landfills," said Jenn Koole, RCA Executive Director. "That’s a legacy that lives on in recycling systems and agricultural stewardship here in Alberta and beyond.”
Friesen's award reflects decades of commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation. His work has helped strengthen agricultural recycling programs, support farmers, and advance circular economy principles that continue to benefit communities across Canada. Through these contributions, he leaves a legacy of sustainability, stewardship, and environmental leadership in Canadian agriculture.
Photo Credit: barryfriesen-cleanfarms-agrirecup