Zero Waste

Zero waste is a simple waste reduction concept with a ton of complexities behind making it actually happen. The City of Nanaimo coordinates with the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) on waste reduction, and the ultimate, shared goal is to become a zero waste community through waste reduction and diversion efforts.

Checkout Bag Changes

Proper disposal of single-use bags, especially plastic ones, have become a world-wide problem, and because they don't break down over a reasonable amount of time, wherever they are discarded, they stay.

On July 1, 2021, the City of Nanaimo implemented Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw 2020 No. 7283. Make sure you take your reusable bags with you on your next shopping trip and get ready to make a small change that will have a positive impact on the environment.

The City of Nanaimo coordinates with the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) on waste reduction. The ultimate goal is to become a zero waste community through waste reduction and diversion efforts.

• RDN Solid Waste Management Plan: a target to divert 90% of the region's waste from the landfill by 2029
  • Visit this webpage for a summary of new programs that will involve City of Nanaimo residents
• Sort Toss Roll Automated Waste Collection Services
  • Click here to open the 2019 Solid Waste Summary Report
  • The What Goes Where recycling directory lists local recycling options to keep waste out of the landfill
• Zero Waste Initiatives
  • Reducing Single Use Checkout Bags in Nanaimo project page
  • Learn about the basics of waste reduction on the Zero Waste 101 page
  • Nanaimo has Proclaimed the third week of October as Waste Reduction Week