Pickering Launches Bold New Anti-Littering Campaign: #ThatsSoTrash

Pickering, ON, March 31, 2025 – The City of Pickering is taking a stand against littering with an engaging new campaign designed to make community members think twice before they toss their trash.

Careless littering and illegal dumping are ugly and pervasive problems, plaguing not only Pickering, but public spaces across the region. This initiative harnesses the power of modern language to shine a spotlight on the controversial topic, shift public attitudes, and promote responsible waste disposal.

“Littering and illegal dumping is an old problem that we’re hoping to bring a fresh perspective to,” said Mayor Ashe. “This campaign is designed to capture attention, spark conversation, and instill a sense of responsibility in community members. The careless and disgusting actions of few are a burden to many, and keeping our city clean is a shared duty. This initiative reminds us that small, mindful actions - like disposing of waste properly - can make a big difference.”

Developed in collaboration with Council and staff, this campaign will intertwine with social accountability to take a bold stance against littering. The messaging is geared to position littering as not only environmentally damaging, but also socially unacceptable.

The digital-first campaign will roll out across the City’s website, social media, digital community signs, and other municipal communication platforms, promoting the impacts of littering, important waste resources, and applicable by-laws, fines, and reporting mechanisms. Residents can expect to see campaign materials in community spaces and at City events, including Earth Month workshops and the weekly Farmers’ Market throughout the summer.

Upcoming Earth Month initiatives include:

Community Cleanups
April 1st to 30th

We Grow Food Workshop
Thursday, April 3rd, 7 pm to 8:30 pm
George Ashe Library & Community Centre

Beekeeper Rachel & the Honey Bees Workshop
Tuesday, April 8th, 7 pm to 8:30 pm
Don Beer Arena, Banquet Hall

Introduction to Vegetable Gardening Workshop
Monday, April 14th, 7 pm to 8:30 pm
East Shore Community Centre

20-Minute Makeover
Tuesday, April 22nd
At various locations across Pickering 

Living Dinosaurs (children’s workshop)
Thursday, April 24th, 4:30 pm to 6 pm
Pickering Central Library

Take Pride in Pickering Community Tree Planting
Saturday, April 26th 10 am to 12 pm
Alex Robertson Park

Growing Food on my City Lot
Wednesday, April 30th, 7 pm to 8:30 pm
Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (O’Brien Meeting Rooms)

Registration is required for Earth Month activities, visit pickering.ca/earthmonth for details. 

While the City maintains over 275 public waste bins, collecting more than 266,000 kg of waste annually, and hosts specialized fishing line disposal stations in key waterfront areas, it continues to respond to a growing number of littering reports, that not only dirty Pickering’s public spaces, but pose a real threat to the safety and wellbeing of local pets and wildlife.

“This campaign is more than just a slogan - it’s a movement,” said Kristy Gagen, Coordinator, Environmental Engagement. “By changing perceptions and behaviours, we can create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Pickering for future generations.”

For more information on the campaign and details on how to get involved, visit LetsTalkPickering.ca/Litter or follow #ThatsSoTrash on the City’s social media accounts (@CityofPickering).

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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 114,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.