Reduce Your Waste

Only buy what you need. Reuse, repair or donate items.

The City of Coquitlam's waste-reduction goals in our approved Environmental Sustainability Plan are to minimize waste generation and maximize reuse, recycling, and material recovery (see pages 34 -41). Below is information on programs and services to reach these goals, and tips on what you can do to help. 

  • Curbside Collection app – Residents who receive curbside waste collection from the City can download the free Coquitlam Curbside Collection app. The app provides waste reduction tips, sorting information, collection day reminders and details on special programs such as the free Seasonal Unlimited Yard Trimmings collection.
    • Residents in multi-family properties, such as townhomes or condos, can reach out to property managers or stratas for information about their private collection services.
  • Waste Wizard – Online search tool to find out how to properly dispose of any item.
  • Recycling – In addition to the curbside recycling offered by Recycle BC, residents can also drop off at the United Boulevard Recycling and Waste Centre.
  • Green Waste  – Coquitlam residents can drop off green waste for free year-round at the United Boulevard Recycling and Waste Centre.
  • Composting – Turn yard trimmings and food scraps into rich soil for your garden. The City offers composting tips and backyard composters at a subsidized price of $25 plus tax.
  • Seasonal Unlimited Yard Trimming Collection – Residents who pay Garbage and Green Waste Utility fees receive unlimited yard trimmings collection twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall.
  • Compost Giveaway – Each spring, residents can pick up compost made from material collected through Green Carts.
  • Water Wise Tools – Coquitlam residents can purchase water wise tools, such as rain barrels and electronic water timers, at a reduced cost from the City.
  • Repair Café – Taking place four times a year, Repair Cafés are events where residents can bring broken items to be fixed for free by volunteers.
  • City-Wide Garage Sale and Giveaway – Held each spring and fall, the City-Wide Garage Sale and Giveaway helps keep good items out of the landfill, with listings appearing on an online map and promoted through City channels.
  • Guide to Donating Locally – A resource to help residents find local organizations or businesses where they can donate items.
  • Large Item Pick Up – Residents who receive City curbside collection can have up to four large items collected free of charge per year. Effective October 6, 2025, electronics will now be accepted.
  • Book an Educational Presentation – City staff provide Recycling and Waste Reduction Presentations for community groups. For more information, please call 604-927-4306 or email Environmental Education.

Regional Campaigns

As part of the Metro Vancouver region, the City of Coquitlam actively participates in regional waste reduction campaigns.

#WhatsYourSuperhabit

Single-use items have a lasting impact on our environment. Our small daily routines to reduce single-use items will save the day. Metro Vancouverites dispose 1.3 billion single-use items per year- that’s 480 bags, straws, utensils, cups, and containers per person. Visit Metro Vancouver's Superhabits page for tips and guidance on the safe use of reusables and to learn more about recycling single-use items.

Think Thrice About Your Clothes!

Did you know that Metro Vancouver residents throw out about 17 pounds of clothing (the equivalent of 44 T-shirts) per person every year? For tips on how to prevent clothing ending up in the landfill, visit ClothesArentGarbage.ca.

Donating Locally

If you have items in good condition that you would like to donate, the following charitable organizations and second-hand retailers would be happy to hear from you.