The future of waste
City invites Edmontonians to help shape a five-year waste reduction plan
The City of Edmonton is currently developing a waste reduction roadmap, which will identify efforts to increase waste reduction from 2026-2030. They have asked Edmontonians to share their input and be part of the future of waste management.
Residents can share their ideas and ask questions at an in-person engagement session at Kingsway Mall on May 21, West Edmonton Mall on May 24, or Northgate Mall on May 28. All sessions run from 11 am to 7 pm. The public may also fill out the Future of Waste Survey until June 11, 2025.
“The sessions are a great way for people to directly connect with the City of Edmonton staff,” says Daniel Kielback, the city’s senior integrated waste policy planner.
Some proposed actions for Roadmap ‘30 include creating a “library-of-things” where people can borrow items like toys, household appliances, electronics, or books from partnering organizations. The city is also proposing curbside giveaway events and textile collection projects.
Kielback mentioned his favourite proposed initiative is the curbside swap idea. “If you're moving into Edmonton, it could be a really great opportunity to get something that you need,” he added.
The waste reduction roadmap is an actionable plan guided by the city’s 25-Year Waste Strategy. Approved in September 2019, the strategy aligns with the city’s goal to have a zero-waste future.
In 2021, the city released their first waste reduction plan, intended to guide waste management actions until 2024. This roadmap led to the Single-use Item Reduction Bylaw, which requires businesses to charge customers for paper or reusable bags, among other regulations.
The public may further engage in the city’s waste reduction initiatives by joining an online discussion hub where people can share their thoughts and suggestions with city staff members.
One Edmonton resident wrote, “I would be incredibly excited to see the city pursue events or opportunities to learn about reusing materials and creating repurposed products!” The resident shared their positive experiences with sustainable craft and swap meets that showcased unique items.
Another resource for the public is the city’s WasteWise App, created to help educate residents on how to sort their waste and notify them about important dates. Visit the Future of Waste website for more information.
Waste Reduction Roadmap Engagement Sessions
Kingsway Mall on May 21
West Edmonton Mall on May 24
Northgate Mall on May 28
All sessions run from 11 am to 7 pm
Mikayla Pohl is a Journalism and Professional Communication student at MacEwan University. She also enjoys event videography and photography.