Celebrating waste reduction week in saskatchewan

October 19, 2026

Media Release, Gov't SK

Key points from this story:

• Waste Reduction Week runs October 19 to 25
• Half of garbage can be recycled
• Benefits include extending landfill life
• Collaborating with Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council
• Encouraging residents to reuse and recycle
• Province aims for 30% waste reduction by 2030

The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to recognize Waste Reduction Week, taking place from October 19 to 25, 2026. Waste Reduction Week highlights the importance of reducing waste and making the most of our resources to support a sustainable future.

"On average, about half of the materials placed in garbage bins can be diverted through recycling, composting and other waste reduction programs," Environment Minister Darlene Rowden said. "Waste Reduction Week is a great time to remember that even small, everyday actions can make a big difference in helping keep materials out of our landfills."

Waste reduction has many benefits, including:

• Extending the life of existing landfills;
• Reducing the need to spend taxpayer dollars on landfill expansions; and
• Keeping landfills safer by reducing the risk of fires and environmental damage from seepage of hazardous waste.

Each year, Saskatchewan is joined by important partners, such as the Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council (SWRC) in recognizing Waste Reduction Week.

"Building a more waste-free Saskatchewan takes all of us," SWRC Executive Director Naomi Mihilewicz said. "We are pleased to work with the Ministry of Environment and communities across the province to help make waste prevention, reuse and recycling easier and more accessible in our everyday lives."

There are many ways Saskatchewan residents can reduce the amount of materials that end up in their garbage bins:

• Repair, repurpose or reuse items whenever possible;
• Donate, sell or give away clothing, furniture and household items that are no longer needed;
• Compost food scraps, yard waste and organic materials; and
• Recycle paper, cardboard, containers, electronics, batteries, paint and other accepted materials.

To learn about local recycling or disposal options for common household items, use the SWRC's Waste Reduction Hub. Waste reduction is a long-term priority in Saskatchewan. Through the Solid Waste Management Strategy, the province has committed to reducing waste generated per person by 30 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040 from 2014 baseline levels. The strategy plays a key role in supporting Saskatchewan's Growth Plan, which emphasizes the importance of sustainability and responsible resource management.