Refuse
- Buy only what you really need
- Avoid unnecessary packaging and individually wrapped items
Reduce
- Choose durable, reusable, and refillable items
- Find ways to reduce everyday items like bubble-wrap, foam peanuts, wrapping paper, ribbons, string, rubber bands, twist-ties, and paper clips
Reuse
- Choose reusable bags and containers. Bring reusable mugs and bottles to quench your thirst and always pack a reusable shopping bag
- Shop at second-hand stores and donate your used clothes if they're still in good condition
- Repair what's broken
- Sell, swap or give away what you no longer want or need
Repurpose
- Good at sewing? Upcycle and turn any bland piece of clothing into an eye-catcher
- Use your arts and crafts skills! You can create funky bracelets from plastic bags, lampshades from broken umbrellas, room dividers from CDs or even coffee tables from old windows
Recycle
- Participate in the City’s recycling and composting programs so you can divert waste from the landfill
- Check out the City of Ottawa's Waste Explorer to find out how to dispose of items properly
- Several household items can be taken back for reuse or recycling to more than 575 retailers in the Ottawa area. Visit the Waste Explorer for a retailer near you
Interested in finding out more?
Invite the Public Works and Environmental Services outreach team to provide a presentation about Ottawa’s green bin and recycling programs to your school or community group! All presentations are subject to audience size and outreach team availability.
