At present, some stores are allowing reusable bags (Sobey’s, Safeway), while others are not (Save-on-Foods). Based on information from public health officials on the spread of the virus, reusable bags pose a limited risk and can continue to be safely used. A practice that provides protection to both store clerks (who don’t need to handle customer bags) and customers (who don’t get exposed to plastic bags handled by staff) is the requirement for customers to bag their own groceries.
Tools to reduce food waste include meal planning (to use only what is needed to limit waste) and freezing excess items. For food scraps and peels, use your own backyard compost. For more tips on reducing food waste at home, visit our Wasteless website, check out some unique Food, Not Waste recipes or download our Food Storage Guide.
Recycling, waste management and packaging recycling have been named essential services in Alberta. Materials will continue to be recycled, but it’s important that residents follow the guidelines in their communities. In Lethbridge, curbside collection of garbage and recycling continues as usual. However, there are some changes to operations at the Waste and Recycling Centre, visit the City website or call 311 for the latest information.
Second-hand donation services and drop-off services have been closed (these include the Salvation Army, Goodwill and Diabetes Canada). Please respect this and hold onto items until these locations reopen. Items left outside will be ruined – send your items to charity, not to landfill!
Some Bottle Depots have chosen to close or limit operating hours. Check your local depot or hold onto your beverage containers until the depots reopen. Find a local depot here.