City announces new fleet aimed at enhancing waste management as part of long-term environmental goals.
Coquitlam has introduced a new fleet of environmentally-friendly garbage collection trucks, featuring decals that remind citizens of responsible waste handling.
The fleet upgrade follows Coquitlam’s recent seven-year contract with Waste Connections Canada, implemented on July 1, 2024. This agreement includes bi-weekly garbage and weekly organics collection, unlimited yard trimmings collection twice a year, a Large Item Pickup program, and enhanced waste collection services for civic facilities.
The new trucks, powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), produce fewer greenhouse emissions compared to traditional fuel options, contributing significantly to reducing the City’s carbon footprint.
To promote effective waste management, the new truck decals serve as reminders: ‘Secure Your Waste’ by storing bins securely, ‘Separate Your Waste’ to reduce landfill use, and ‘Reduce Your Waste’ by reusing and recycling.
Coquitlam’s urban wildlife, including bears and coyotes, requires responsible waste handling to minimize human-wildlife conflicts. Residents are encouraged to store all waste containers in areas inaccessible to wildlife and follow guidelines for waste storage and disposal.
With over 25,500 residential properties served, Coquitlam emphasizes the community’s role in sustainability, reporting a 70% diversion rate of household waste from landfills in 2023.
The City offers various waste management programs, including a Curbside Collection app, Large Item Pickup, and Recycling at Civic Facilities. These initiatives support Coquitlam’s green goals by enhancing community participation in environmental stewardship.
Contact: Brad Lofgren, Director of Public Works, 604-927-4300, WasteReduction@coquitlam.ca.