Air quality warning issued for southeast Calgary after Ecco Recycling landfill fire
A landfill fire that reignited multiple times this week is affecting Douglasdale, Quarry Park, and other nearby communities.
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An air quality warning was issued Friday for southeast Calgary communities downwind of a landfill fire at Ecco Recycling between 24th Street and Barlow Trail S.E. that ignited Sunday and has reignited multiple times through the week.
Alberta Environment and Protected Areas began monitoring air quality Wednesday after firefighters re-established full fire operations. Air monitoring reviewed Friday found no hourly average readings above Alberta's ambient air quality guidelines, though residents in areas directly downwind may still experience smoke and related health effects.
Calgary Fire Department is advising residents to keep windows and doors closed, limit time outdoors and physical activity, and check on vulnerable family and neighbours. The city recommends turning furnace thermostats down, upgrading furnace filters to the highest efficiency the system can handle, and avoiding ventilation systems that bring in outdoor air. Using air purifiers is also advised.
Communities at greatest risk include Douglasdale, Quarry Park, East Shepard, McKenzie Towne, New Brighton, and Copperfield. Residents may experience eye, nose and throat irritation, increased mucus production, coughing, and headaches. People with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should monitor symptoms and follow advice from healthcare professionals.
What is the expected timeline for full containment and extinguishment of the fire?
How much material has burned or remains at risk in the Ecco facility?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
Where is the landfill fire located?
The fire is at Ecco Recycling between 24th Street and Barlow Trail S.E. in southeast Calgary.
When did the landfill fire start?
The fire at Ecco Recycling ignited on Sunday, September 6, 2026, and has reignited multiple times through the week.
Which communities are at greatest risk from the fire?
Douglasdale, Quarry Park, East Shepard, McKenzie Towne, New Brighton, and Copperfield are at greatest risk.
What should residents do to protect themselves?
Residents should keep windows and doors closed, limit time outdoors and physical activity, upgrade furnace filters to the highest efficiency available, and consider using air purifiers.
