The City of Peterborough is encouraging residents to take part in cleanup efforts and waste reduction initiatives as part of the Provincial Day of Action on Litter taking place Tuesday.
Observed annually on the second Tuesday in May, the initiative aims to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of litter and reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfills, parks and waterways.
City officials say litter can damage ecosystems, harm wildlife and create significant cleanup costs for municipalities and communities.
Residents are being encouraged to reduce waste by reusing and repairing items, recycling and composting materials where possible, and choosing products with less packaging. The city is also reminding people to properly secure garbage in waste bins to help keep neighbourhoods and public spaces clean.
To support local cleanup efforts, the city is continuing to offer litter cleanup kits through its Public Works and Recreation and Parks departments. The kits include gloves and garbage bags, while staff can also arrange pickup locations for collected waste following cleanup events.
According to the city, 20 community cleanup events have already been supported in Peterborough so far in 2026.
The city is also seeking public feedback through its Clean Streets Peterborough review, which is examining waste collection, litter management and garbage in parks, trails and public areas across the community.
Officials say the survey will help guide future decisions around waste diversion programs, collection schedules, landfill operations, public education and the placement of waste bins.
The survey remains open until June 19 through the city’s public engagement website.
(Written by: Branden Rushton)
