The third week of October (21-27) is Waste Reduction Week! Each day explores a theme related to circular economy and waste reduction, and features tips on how you can do your part in reducing waste in Dufferin County. Waste Reduction Week is a key part of the newly-proclaimed Circular Economy Month in Dufferin County.

Monday kicks off the week with the theme of Circular Economy. Learn more about the positive impacts of a circular economy by visiting the Circular Innovation Council website.

Donate your unwanted clothes to keep them out of the landfills and help with ‘Clothes’ing the Loop’ on textiles! Not sure if your worn and torn textiles can be donated? Some organizations accept those too! Use the Clothes’ing the Loop Map Tool to find businesses, organizations and community donation bins near you!

Do you have old electronics piling up at home? Drop them off at a Household Hazardous & Electronic Waste Event! The final event of the year will be on Saturday, November 9 from 8am – 3pm at the Orangeville Operations Centre located at 500 C-Line.

You can also recycle e-waste year-round for free by visiting the GFL Transfer Station located at 473051 County Rd. 11, Amaranth.

How can you help reduce plastic pollution? Choose to reuse! Switch to reusable items, such as grocery bags, take-out containers, utensils, straws, and coffee mugs. By choosing to reuse, you help keep plastics out of the oceans and landfills!

Did you know that the average household wastes $1500 worth of food per year? Most of this food waste consists of healthy fruits and vegetables that could have been eaten but were thrown out instead. Want to waste less food, save more money and eat healthier in the process? Download our food waste resources to get started! Visit dufferincounty.ca/waste to learn how to buy only what you need, preserve what you buy and love your leftovers!

Do you have unwanted items, such as appliances, clothing, or dishes? Take them back to a participating vendor for reuse, recycling, and proper disposal. Download the Take It Back Directory to find vendors near you. When you take back your unwanted items, you help contribute to a circular economy and keep waste from ending up in the landfill!

Save the date for the Winter Warmth Clothing Swap event on Saturday, November 9 at Grand Valley Public Library! Want a new look for winter? Find one for free! Bring 5-10 unwanted winter items, including hats, mittens, jackets and other cold-weather clothing, and swap them for something cozy, warm, and new-to-you. All items must be clean and in wearable condition.

Additional details and event guidelines for the clothing swap are coming soon. Light refreshments will be served and there will be a chance to win prizes!

Want to host your own event? Check out the Swap It Toolkit from the Circular Innovation Council for more information.

Follow Dufferin Waste on Facebook and X and download the Dufferin Waste App on your Apple or Android device!