Litter-Free Grey Highlands is an initiative supported by the Municipality of Grey Highlands to promote cleaner public spaces and foster environmental responsibility across the region. The program encourages residents, visitors, and community groups to safely pick up litter in parks, trails, roadsides, and neighbourhoods — helping to preserve the natural beauty of our shared environment.

A report presented to Grey Highlands Council highlighted the growing interest in community-led cleanup efforts and emphasized the importance of supporting safe, coordinated litter collection. This initiative aligns with the municipality’s broader goals outlined in its strategic and waste management planning documents, including sustainability, civic engagement, and long-term environmental stewardship.

Whether you're cleaning up solo or with a group, your efforts contribute to a cleaner, healthier Grey Highlands. Let’s work together to keep our municipality litter-free — one piece at a time.

10 Tips for Safe Litter Pickup in Grey Highlands

1. Wear Protective Gloves
   Use heavy-duty or nitrile gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects, bacteria, and chemicals.
2. Use Litter Grabbers or Pickers
   These tools help you avoid direct contact with trash and reduce strain from bending.
3. Wear Closed-Toe, Slip-Resistant Footwear
   Protect your feet from broken glass, nails, and uneven terrain.
4. Dress for Visibility
   Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially if you are near roads or trails.
5. Stay Off the Roadway
   Always stay at least 5 feet from the edge of the road and never pick up litter directly from traffic lanes.
6. Bring a First Aid Kit and Cell Phone
   Be prepared for minor injuries and emergencies.
7. Identify Before You Touch
   If you’re unsure about an item — especially if it looks hazardous — don’t touch it. Call local authorities if needed.
8. Work in Groups When Possible
   It is safer and more fun to clean up with others. Walk facing traffic and stay alert.
9. Use Durable Trash Bags or Buckets
   Heavy-duty bags or reusable containers help prevent tears and spills. Avoid overfilling bags to reduce injury risk.

1. What is Litter-Free Grey Highlands?

Litter-Free Grey Highlands is an initiative supported by the municipality to encourage safe litter cleanup and promote environmental stewardship across Grey Highlands.

2. Who can participate?
Everyone! Residents, visitors, schools, businesses, and community groups are all welcome to take part.

3. How do I safely pick up litter?
Wear gloves, use a litter grabber, avoid hazardous items, and stay visible and safe — especially near roads. Check out our safety tips for more guidance.

4. Where can I clean up?
You can clean up in parks, trails, sidewalks, and other public spaces. Please avoid private property unless you have permission.

5. What should I do with the litter I collect?
Small quantities can be disposed of in your household waste and recycling collection. For large quantities, contact the municipality for disposal support.

6. Is there a map to track cleanups?
Yes! You can mark your cleanup location on our interactive map to show where you have made a difference.

7. Are there organized cleanup events?
Yes, especially around the Provincial Day of Action on Litter in May. Follow our website or social media for event updates.

8. How can I get involved or volunteer?
Consider joining our Adopt-A-Road program or join a local cleanup group. We welcome volunteers and community partners.

9. Why is this initiative important?
Litter harms wildlife, pollutes water, and affects community pride. Every cleanup helps protect our environment and keeps Grey Highlands beautiful.

10. Are there any special dates to recognize?
Yes! Please see all of the key dates below:

Earth Day - April 22nd, 2026
Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22, to raise awareness about environmental protection and sustainability. It’s a global movement that encourages individuals, communities, and organizations to take action in preserving our planet—whether through reducing waste, planting trees, or advocating for clean energy. Earth Day reminds us that small steps today can lead to a healthier, greener future for generations to come.

Provincial Day of Action on Litter - May 12th, 2026
Held annually on the second Tuesday in May, Ontario’s Provincial Day of Action on Litter encourages everyone to help reduce waste and clean up litter in their communities. It’s a day to raise awareness and take action for a cleaner, healthier environment.

Canadian Environment Week - June 1st to June 7th, 2026
Canadian Environment Week takes place during the first week of June to coincide with UN World Environment Day on June 5. Established in 1971, it celebrates Canada’s environmental achievements and encourages people to protect and conserve natural spaces, air, water, and wildlife.

World Environment Day - June 5th, 2026
World Environment Day, observed on June 5, is the United Nations’ flagship day for encouraging global awareness and action to protect our environment. Each year focuses on a specific theme, highlighting urgent issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. It’s a call for individuals, communities, and governments to work together for a sustainable future.

World Cleanup Day - September 19th, 2026
World Cleanup Day harnesses the power of everyday people to achieve incredible things by joining together. Its beauty lies in cooperation and collaboration: building bridges between disparate communities, and including all levels of society - from citizens to businesses, to government. Volunteers and partners worldwide come together to rid our planet of trash - cleaning up litter and mismanaged waste from our beaches, rivers, forests, and streets. World Cleanup Day is the biggest event organized by the global organization. 

Waste Reduction Week in Canada -October 19th to October 26th, 2026
Waste Reduction Week in Canada (WRW) is a year-round program, focused on the principles of circular economy, resource efficiency, and waste reduction. The program’s primary purpose is to celebrate our environmental efforts and achievements while encouraging new innovative ideas and solutions. The celebratory nature of the campaign is what motivates learning and behaviour change.