A community group in Malvern East is taking a proactive approach to waste management by shifting mindsets and educating residents on waste reduction strategies. While the City of Toronto has seen a decrease in large litter, the landfill diversion rate remains stagnant, prompting the need for more sustainable practices.
Firdous Hussein, a resident of Malvern East, emphasizes the importance of reducing waste at the source and understanding the entire waste cycle to minimize litter production. This sentiment is echoed by many residents, including those in Scarborough, who are concerned about the growing litter issue in their neighborhoods.
To address this challenge, residents in Wexford established Scarborough Zero Waste, an environmental organization focused on promoting waste reduction initiatives. Quentin De Becker, the organization’s executive director, highlights the connection between lifestyle choices and litter accumulation in suburban areas.
Scarborough Zero Waste has implemented various programs, such as repair cafes, upcycling workshops, and borrowing initiatives, to help residents minimize waste. Their efforts have expanded to the Scarborough Farmers’ Market in Malvern East, where they collaborate with the City of Toronto’s Live Green initiative to promote sustainable packaging and upcycling practices.
Jennifer Forde, the Development Manager for the Scarborough Farmers’ Market, praises Scarborough Zero Waste for encouraging vendors to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions and reduce waste through reusable alternatives.
By partnering with different organizations, Scarborough Zero Waste aims to engage the community in waste reduction efforts, instilling sustainable habits in schools, workplaces, and beyond.