As we embrace the final weeks of summer, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the North Shore’s collective commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.
Our region continues to lead in recycling and repurposing, with a strong network of programs and partners making it easier than ever for residents to make a positive impact.
One of the most inspiring initiatives remains the ongoing partnership with Urban Repurpose, a not-for-profit organization that’s more than just a recycling initiative. Urban Repurpose is helping shape a community-wide movement for zero waste, circular economy, and neighbourly support.
Through September, the Urban Repurpose team will continue partnering with the North Shore Recycling Waste Centre to host regular “Reuse Days” —accessible drop-off events Fridays and Saturdays from 9 to 3 where residents can donate quality goods instead of sending them to landfill.
Thanks to these efforts, over 27,000 kg of reusable material have already been collected and made available to local households, either for free or affordably resold at the Urban Repurpose community storefront at 440 Brooksbank Avenue.
Zero waste – a team effort
Zero-waste efforts on the North Shore don’t stop there. Our municipalities collaborate with regional partners, like Metro Vancouver’s Zero Waste Committee, to expand repair cafés, support food recovery programs, and provide additional collection for items including electronics, clothing, books, and flexible plastics.
Local zero-waste efforts are part of a larger Canadian movement—one driven in concert with federal strategies and investments to make a circular economy a reality across the country.
Canada’s federal government has committed to ambitious goals for reducing waste and promoting re-use, recycling, and repurposing. The vision is laid out in the Canada-wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste and its Action Plan, in which I played a role as former Minister of Environment and Climate Change. This plan aims to transform how Canadians use materials, with real measures to keep plastics and other resources circulating in the economy, rather than lost to landfills or incineration.
Work far from over
The work to decrease landfill waste and discourage single-use culture is far from over. Metro Vancouver’s recycling rates are high. Yet even here, the volume of discarded furniture, appliances, building materials, and household electronics continues to rise. We know that more can be done — and it starts with small actions close to home.
As we clean garages, prepare for a move, or simply declutter, I encourage everyone to donate quality reusable goods at an upcoming Reuse Day, or check municipal websites and the Recycle BC depot locator for the latest guidelines and locations.
North Vancouver proves that the path to zero waste is not one-directional; it’s a dialogue. Federal policy sets the goalposts, but it’s the creativity, commitment, and cooperation at the local level that make achievements possible.
By the federal government continuing to align its vision with local leadership, North Vancouver is charting a course for a cleaner, fairer, and more resilient Canada—one reusable item at a time.