Yukon NDP announces plan to lower costs for local business community

October 17, 2025

For Immediate Release 

October 17, 2025

Territories of the Kwanlin Dun First Nation, Ta’an Kwäch’än Council – Today, Yukon NDP Leader Kate White announced her plan to support the Yukon’s local business community by covering the cost of the new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for its first year.

“The Yukon’s local businesses are the backbone of our economy,” said White. “I’ve owned a small business – I know the long hours, the tough decisions, and the pride that comes from serving your community. But right now, too many local business owners are feeling left out, trying to figure out a complicated new system on their own. It’s time you had a team you can count on.”

The Yukon NDP would support local businesses by providing direct relief from initial EPR costs and access to one-on-one support from a dedicated EPR Navigator, who would assist businesses with the transition.

The EPR program, designed to make producers responsible for the waste generated by the products they sell, is a key step toward sustainability. However, the Yukon business community has raised serious concerns about the rushed rollout and lack of clear guidance from the Liberal government. Many have described the process as “overly complex” and said the lack of consultation has left them scrambling to take on these new responsibilities and costs.

“We appreciate the work that has been done by public servants to figure this out and we support the program and want it to be successful,” said White. “But we understand the business community has concerns. The EPR program is important, but it only works if there’s buy-in and support. Our commitment will help local businesses adjust to the new program and thrive.”

The Yukon NDP’s proposal reflects the party’s broader vision of listening to Yukoners and lowering costs. 

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