- Log in to post comments
Every year on April 22, Earth Day unites more than 1 billion people across 193+ countries in a shared commitment to environmental protection. First launched in 1970, it has grown into a global movement powered by education, community action, and everyday choices that reduce our impact on the planet. Learn more about the history of Earth Day.
This year’s Earth Day theme is Our Power, Our Planet. The message is clear: collective action—at home, at work, and across our communities—has the power to restore and protect our environment for generations to come.
For businesses, especially those in foodservice, property management, and operations, Earth Day is an ideal moment to revisit waste‑reduction practices and strengthen recycling programs. Urban Impact is proud to support organizations across the Lower Mainland of British Columbia with tools, education, and services that make sustainable choices easier.
Reduce Food Waste with Practical, Easy-to-Use Tools
Food waste remains one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Fortunately, small changes in how we store, prepare, and manage food can make a big difference. These guides empower staff and tenants to make informed decisions that keep edible food out of the garbage stream.
Urban Impact recommends several helpful resources from Love Food Hate Waste, including:
- Fridge Guide — Learn how to store foods properly to extend freshness.
- A–Z Food Storage Directory — Quick lookups for how to store almost any ingredient.
- Shelf Life Guide — Understand best-before dates and reduce unnecessary disposal.
Cut Down on Single-Use Items
Single-use items, such as cups, cutlery, containers, and packaging, are a major source of waste. Metro Vancouver’s Single-Use Item Reduction Toolkit provides clear, actionable strategies for reducing reliance on disposables and transitioning to reusable alternatives.
For foodservice businesses, Metro Vancouver also offers a Sustainable Foodservice Purchasing Guide, helping operators choose durable, reusable, and lower-impact products.
Resources for Restaurants
For restaurants businesses, Metro Vancouver provides program outlines, best practices, and waste‑reduction strategies tailored to the foodservice sector. These resources help operators:
- Improve sorting and recycling
- Reduce food waste
- Choose sustainable packaging
- Train staff effectively
Improve Sorting and Boost Recycling Rates
Proper sorting is one of the most effective ways to reduce what ends up in your garbage and increase recyclability. Clear, visual posters help residents and businesses understand what belongs in organics, recycling, and garbage streams.
Urban Impact encourages building managers and businesses to display these posters in kitchens, waste rooms, and common areas to support better habits and reduce contamination.
Urban Impact also offers Free Sort It Out Lists and Waste Consulting Services to assist businesses with visual sorting guides and customized recycling programs. Learn more.
Your Business Has the Power to Make a Difference
Earth Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder that every organization has the power to reduce waste, conserve resources, and support a healthier planet. Whether you’re improving food storage practices, reducing single-use items, or strengthening your recycling program, each action contributes to meaningful change.
Urban Impact is here to help your business take the next step toward sustainability with practical tools, education, and recycling solutions that make a measurable difference.
#OurPowerOurPlanet #EarthDay2026
