5,000 Tonnes and Counting: The EWSWA Celebrates Earth Day Milestone at Malden Park

Post-Event Media Release

April 30, 2026

More than 1,700 residents made their way to Malden Park on Sunday for the 2026 Earth Day celebration, where the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA) marked a significant milestone.

Since its launch, the Green Bin Program has diverted more than 5,000 tonnes of food waste from the Essex-Windsor Regional Landfill. The achievement reflects the efforts of residents across the region who have made food waste diversion part of their routine.

“Diverting 5,000 tonnes of food waste from our local landfill is a remarkable achievement,” said Cathy Copot-Nepszy, Manager of Waste Diversion. “That's thousands of households making a real difference every collection day. We’re giving all residents a well-deserved High 5 for this milestone!”

The EWSWA also played a central role in making the Earth Day celebration a zero-waste event, providing composting, recycling, and waste-sorting stations.

Residents stopped by the EWSWA tent to learn about the Green Bin Program, the Hazardous and Special Products Program, and Garden Gold Compost.

The EWSWA Green Team was also on hand throughout the day to answer questions and provide residents with resources and educational materials to support waste diversion efforts in their communities.

What's Next

The EWSWA is preparing for the next phase of the Green Bin Program's regional expansion. Green Bins will be delivered to residents in Amherstburg, Kingsville, and Leamington beginning in September, with collection beginning in November. The expansion will bring food waste diversion to thousands of additional households across Windsor-Essex.

Residents looking to put their compost to work this spring can take advantage of the May Madness Garden Gold Compost sale, beginning May 4. Pre-bagged compost is available at five bags for $12 at the Public Drop Off Depot in Windsor and Transfer Station #2 in Kingsville, while supplies last.

For more information on EWSWA programs, visit www.ewswa.org.