Top 5 Cleanest Cities in Canada
Canada has a number of world-recognized clean and green cities. Its major cities pride themselves on efficient waste management services, enviro-educational programs and community spirit. The cities offer the green and blue bin solutions to ensure waste is managed. Calgary, Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto are considered the cleanest cities in Canada.
Calgary – The railway of the future. Calgary may be known for its natural resources, but its Light Rail Transportation system sets it apart from its other Canadian cousins. A well-planned, grid-like structure, the system is compact and environmentally friendly.
Though residents are actively encouraged to recycle, Calgary’s innovative waste management program has been implemented to sort biodegradable and recyclable material that people may have missed. Such conscientious action by the council has led to the creation of the Clean Calgary Association, which aims to instill a green ethos in the city’s residents. Interested participants can attend environmental education workshops, which provide excellent networking opportunities to strengthen business and community relationships. Phone 403-230-1443 ext. 222 to register.
What makes Calgary the cleanest city in Canada? Residents are given the impetus to act locally while thinking globally; that is, they are encouraged to spread the eco-message further afield.
Ottawa – A world leader in Spring Cleaning More than 65,000 Ottawa residents joined forces to make Spring Cleaning the Capital 2009 the most successful campaign to-date! Earlier this year community volunteers united to clean up 1,000 of Ottawa’s parks, roadways and green spaces. Participants helped collect almost 112,500kg of waste from these areas, restoring them to near pristine condition. Ottawa council invests $7.9 million each year in cleaning up litter – that’s a lotta cash! Ottawa council also recognizes the importance of keeping cars off the road by encouraging people to skate to work in the winter.
Montreal – A city under clear skies. Recognizing the importance of clear skies, Montreal has implemented a significant smog-reduction program. The program is largely aimed at motorists and encourages them to leave their cars at home, or to make changes to the way they drive in order to positively affect the air environment. They also encourage residents to make their homes energy efficient by reducing the unnecessary use of appliances, using fluorescent lights, and reducing the use of toxic chemicals.
Vancouver – a green leader Vancouver is one of the few Canadian cities without a major freeway running within its CBD. It is famously regarded for its green ethos, as it encourages its roof-top gardens and use of public transport. In February 2009 mayor Gregor Robertson launched rebates on car share initiatives and sustainable commuting in an effort to make Vancouver the greenest city in the world. We salute you Vancouver.
Toronto – Clean Canada in 2010. Recent industrial action has forced Toronto residents to carefully consider their waste management plans. Undeterred by the recent strikes, the city will be in the national spotlight in 2010 when it hosts the Clean Canada expo. The expo will feature a wide variety of exhibitors offering waste and green solutions for businesses and homes.
Toronto encourages its residents to compost, providing them with extensive training in how to effectively reduce household waste. The city also offers the Green and Blue Bin solutions to ensure all waste is effectively managed.