Pickering brings back ‘Littering? That’s so trash.’ campaign

By City of Pickering - Apr 10, 2026

News and Announcements

An educational campaign designed to challenge litter and illegal dumping while calling on the community to take action

Pickering, ON, April 9, 2026 - Littering and illegal dumping are not harmless habits. They damage the environment, threaten wildlife, strain municipal resources, and diminish the shared spaces residents rely on every day.

To confront the issue head on, the City of Pickering is bringing back its bold public awareness campaign, “Littering? That’s so trash.” Originally launched in spring 2025, the initiative uses clear, modern language to challenge unacceptable behaviour, spark conversation, and encourage residents to report littering and illegal dumping in the community.

The campaign is gaining traction. Since its launch, more than 300 cases have been reported through the City’s Customer Care Centre – a 25 per cent increase that signals growing awareness, stronger community vigilance, and a clear refusal to look the other way.

That increased awareness is producing results. Municipal Law Enforcement has stepped up patrols in areas with high complaint volumes and continues to pursue charges where evidence permits. Since the campaign began, more than 50 charges have been laid for illegal dumping, reinforcing that this behaviour carries consequences and will not be ignored.

The City continues to complement enforcement with education and outreach. Recent efforts include a printed pamphlet on the most common waste-related etiquette and rules, featuring multilingual content in Pickering’s top eight languages, as well as an online resource that can be translated into more than 100 languages. Together, these tools help broaden access to information and support responsible waste disposal across the community.

“Responding to careless littering and illegal dumping puts a strain on municipal resources,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe. “A cleaner Pickering starts with all of us. When the community reports, responds, and stands together, we are stronger – and those who disrespect our city are put on notice. We have seen tremendous support from the community, and the public response to this campaign makes it clear that there is no tolerance for this type of behaviour in Pickering. I want to thank everyone who has helped raise awareness and take pride in our city.”

Residents are encouraged to visit LetsTalkPickering.ca/Litter to learn more, access campaign resources, and find out how to get involved. Updates and campaign content can also be found on the City’s social media channels using #ThatsSoTrash.

The campaign also aligns with the City’s broader Earth Month programming, which encourages residents to take part in environmental education, stewardship, and community clean-up efforts throughout April.

Earth Month Activities

Register for a Community Cleanup

April 1 - April 30 (offered year-round while supplies last)
Help take action on litter in Pickering. Join the challenge and make a difference in your community. Bags and gloves will be provided while quantities last.

How to Plan a Successful Vegetable Garden

Tuesday, April 14, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Don Beer Arena, Banquet Hall
Discover how to create a garden you'll love. Learn how to assess your space, choose a style that fits your lifestyle, and plan a layout with plants that thrive. Free. Pre-registration is required.

Shell-ebrate Turtle Conservation!

(Children’s Workshop, ages 6-12)
Friday, April 17, 2 pm - 3:30 pm
Pickering Central Library
Dive into the amazing world of turtles. Learn how to identify native turtle species, explore conservation facts, and rotate through hands-on activity stations. Free. Pre-registration is required.

Take Pride in Pickering Tree Planting

Saturday, April 18, 10 am - 12 pm
Alex Robertson Park
Join a community tree planting event and get involved. Students can earn volunteer hours. Free. Pre-registration is required.

Home Energy Orientation

Monday, April 20, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
East Shore Community Centre, Community Room
Learn practical ways to make your home more energy-efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective. The workshop covers simple do-it-yourself fixes and information on larger home upgrades. Free. Pre-registration is required.

20-Minute Makeover

Wednesday, April 22
Across the City of Pickering
Schools, families, neighbourhood groups, and businesses are invited to help give Pickering a makeover by spending at least 20 minutes picking up litter in their community. Bags and gloves will be provided while quantities last.

Gardening for Pollinators

Wednesday, April 29, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
CHDRC, Meeting Rooms 2 & 3
Learn how small gardening choices can make a big difference for native pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Free. Pre-registration is required.

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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 118,000) 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.