​​City one step closer to becoming Canada’s first litter-free city

BRAMPTON, ON (October 22, 2024) – The City of Litter Reduction Charter​ is now ready to be signed, marking a significant milestone in the City’s journey toward becoming Canada’s first litter-free city. Developed through the input of local stakeholders at Brampton’s first-ever Litter Reduction Forum last fall, as well as important feedback from the Litter Reduction Working Group, this Charter sets forth a shared commitment to reducing and preventing litter throughout the community.

​Members of Brampton City Council, local businesses and residents sign Brampton’s Litter Reduction Charter at a special event on October 22, 2024. Credit: City of Brampton

The Litter Reduction Charter outlines actionable steps for individuals, businesses and organizations to take in their daily lives to minimize litter and promote environmental stewardship. It emphasizes the importance of community involvement in tackling litter and highlights the collective responsibility to protect Brampton’s natural surroundings.

Today, aligning with Waste Reduction Week, members of Brampton’s City Council, local businesses and community leaders formally signed the Charter at a special event. This pivotal moment represents an effort to combat litter, beautify Brampton and protect the environment for future generations. Residents and businesses are encouraged to add their signatures​ and be part of this collaborative initiative. 

In addition to the Charter, the City is implementing programs to raise awareness and encourage participation, including friendly litter cleanup competitions and community cleanup events, in a proactive measure to keep Brampton litter-free.

 Visit Brampton.ca/communitysafety for more information. 

 ​Sign Brampton’s Litter Reduction Charter​

Sign your name to Brampton’s Litter Reduction Charter to join the collective commitment to make Brampton Canada’s first litter-free community.

To read, sign or download the Charter, visit this website​.

Tips to help reduce litter in the community

• Put trash in its place: Trash and waste should be placed in garbage cans, recycling bins and compost bins. Do not throw trash on the ground or out of cars.
• Bring excess household waste to a waste management facility: Dumping garbage and debris in non-designated area(s) can create a health and safety hazard. As stated in the Refuse and Dumping By-law it is illegal to dump waste (e.g. household and business trash, construction materials, old tires, etc.) on public or private property.
• Be Mindful of Takeout Waste: Takeout packaging is one of the biggest contributors to litter in public areas. Leftover food attracts wildlife, which can get tangled in or choke on packaging. Always dispose of your takeout waste properly.
• Avoid Overfilling Garbage Bins: Wind can easily blow trash out of overflowing bins. If you see a full bin, find another or take your waste home to prevent litter from spreading.
• Prevent Waterway Pollution: Litter can make its way into our waterways, harming aquatic life and blocking water flow, which may lead to flooding. Dispose of trash properly to protect both wildlife and the environment.

Learn how the City of Brampton is committed to becoming more healthy, resilient and environmentally sustainable by visiting Brampton.ca/growgreen.   ​

Ready, Set, Collect: Litter Reduction Competition

On April 20, the City launched its new Litter Reduction Competition. This virtual tool allows residents to track their cleanup efforts by reporting the area they have visited and the amount of litter they have collected. Through this tool, residents can share their results to challenge other neighbourhoods to undertake their own cleanup efforts to keep Brampton clean. Learn more at this website.  ​

Quotes

“As Brampton moves closer to becoming Canada’s first litter-free city, we all have a role to play in keeping our community clean and beautiful. The Litter Reduction Charter is a powerful step forward, and I encourage every resident and business to sign it. Together, we can build a city where everyone takes responsibility for our environment to make sure future generations inherit a cleaner, greener Brampton. Let’s continue to lead the way and set an example for the rest of the country.” Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

“The Litter Reduction Charter reflects the voices of our residents and businesses who are committed to making Brampton a litter-free city. This initiative shows how, when we work together, we can create a positive and lasting impact that benefits everyone. I am incredibly proud to be one of the first to sign this Charter and urge everyone to join me in doing the same.” Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 & 5; Chair, Community Services, City of Brampton​​