From Waste to Action
Waste Minimization Solutions for Individuals and Businesses
Since 1989, AWARE has spearheaded Whistler’s zero waste movement, and is now focusing on raising awareness and supporting organics diversion to help the community meet its zero waste goals.
The Problems We Face
One-third of all food produced globally goes to waste. That’s massive. When it hits landfills, it releases methane—a greenhouse gas 27 times more potent than carbon dioxide. If food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases. In BC alone, food retailers and service businesses waste about $1.3 billion worth of food each year.
In Whistler, 26% of household waste sent to landfills in 2024 could’ve been composted and turned into nutrient-rich soil for local agriculture. Instead, it ended up in the landfill, adding to the climate crisis.
The top causes of food waste include:
- Overbuying food
- Improper storage
- Improper disposal
Our Step Toward Change
We tackle food waste in accordance with the waste hierarchy to make the biggest impact, focusing first on preventing and reducing waste through better food management and consumption practices, and then recycling unavoidable waste by composting to minimize landfill impact and enrich the soil.
Through education and collaboration, we’re giving Whistler residents, visitors, and businesses the tools to make change by offering free one-on-one training, customized action plans, and waste audits to help Whistler’s restaurants, hotels, and grocery stores reduce food waste, cut costs, and meet the requirements of the Solid Waste Bylaw’s organic waste separation mandate.
It’s a win-win: less waste, more savings, and a positive impact on the environment.
We know we can’t do this alone, so we’ve partnered up with Green For Life (GFL) and the Resort Municipality of Whistler, to support the community’s Zero Waste Action Plan, focusing on diverting organics and strengthening climate resilience.
Impact & Success Stories
Our goal is to divert 3-5% of Whistler’s organic waste from landfills by the end of 2025. Together, we can make it happen and create real change.
Signage and Educational Tools For In Your Strata Accommodation
The following tools support properties as they introduce or update systems and procedures that keep organic and recyclable waste out of the garbage. These are free and available for download below (some links redirect to…
Signage and Educational Tools For In Your Business
The following tools support businesses as they introduce or update systems and procedures that keep organic and recyclable waste out of the garbage. These are free and available for download below
Waste Reduction Package – for Whistler Businesses
A partnership between AWARE and the Resort Municipality of Whistler, working to reduce waste and achieve zero waste goals.
What You Can Do
For Residents & Visitors
Small changes, big impact. By making mindful choices about how we shop, store, and dispose of food, we can cut waste, lower emissions, and save money. Discover easy ways to reduce food waste at home and support composting efforts that benefit Whistler’s environment.
For Businesses
Reduce waste, meet bylaws, and save money. Our free support helps Whistler’s restaurants, hotels, and grocery stores minimize food waste, comply with local composting rules, and boost sustainability. Let’s build a greener, more cost-efficient future—together.
- Become an AWARE Member and receive perks at all of our events.
- Sign Up for Volunteer Opportunities
- Partner Up | If you’re part of a local organization or business, let’s see how we can collaborate to create a greater impact.