Pickering says an educational campaign to crack down on littering is working.

Their “Littering? That’s so Trash” campaign launched last year to raise awareness about the issue and the city says people took notice.

Since then, more than 300 cases were reported through Pickering’s Customer Care Centre – a 25 per cent increase. As a result, bylaw officers have stepped up enforcement in areas where there are the most complaints and continued to pursue charges when evidence permits. Since the start of the campaign, they’ve laid 50 charges for illegal dumping.

“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.”

To learn more, click here and you can also follow along on social media using the hashtag #ThatsSoTrash.

The campaign also aligns with the city’s Earth Month programming, which includes the following activities in April:

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.

Photo courtesy of City of Pickering