Pollution Prevention Week demonstrates how everyday choices can reduce pollution, safeguard waterways and support a cleaner, healthier community. This year, the City’s Stormwater Programs team is collaborating with City departments including Parks, Active Transportation, Environmental Planning and Animal Services to share messages aligned with Brampton’s Environmental Master Plan (EMP)​ and promote community-wide environmental stewardship.

Daily themes in Brampton

​Monday – Tree Month (Environmental Planning & Parks)

Trees improve air quality, reduce pollution and provide shade. Residents are encouraged to participate in Tree Month events​ and help expand Brampton’s urban forest to One Million Trees by 2040​.​

Tuesday – Park Cleanup (Parks)

Litter harms wildlife, pollutes waterways and impacts parks. Residents are invited to register for a Parks Cleanup event​.

​Wednesday – Water Pollution Prevention: Car Washing (Stormwater)

Washing cars on driveways can send soaps and dirt into catch basins and local waterways. Residents are encouraged to use a commercial car wash where water is treated, wash at home responsibly by using biodegradable soap, wash over a lawn or gravel or direct the dirty water indoors where the water is treated.

​​Thursday – Air Pollution Prevention: (Active Transportation)

Residents are encouraged to walk, cycle, use an e-scooter or take transit. Choosing active transportation​ reduces emissions and improves air quality across Brampton’s neighbourhoods. Residents can also take part in ATAC’s free Community Rides from May to September led by volunteer members of the Brampton Active Transportation Advisory Committee.​​

​Friday – Pet Waste Pollution Prevention (Animal Services)

Pet owners are reminded to pick up after their pets and dispose of waste in the garbage, as required by City by-laws. 

Why this matters

Stormwater, or runoff, is rain and melted snow that flows across streets, driveways and lawns. Unlike household wastewater from sinks or toilets, it doesn’t go to a treatment plant. Instead, it flows into local stormwater ponds, rivers and creeks and ultimately to Lake Ontario, the source of drinking water for millions of people including Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon.

As stormwater moves across surfaces, it can carry pollutants such as motor oil, fertilizers, road salt, yard waste and litter into the storm sewer system. Preventing these pollutants from entering waterways helps protect the environment and drinking water sources.​

How you can help

The City of Brampton encourages all residents to do their part:

• Dispose of hazardous waste safely. Take materials such as paints, chemicals and motor oil to Peel’s Community Recycling Centres.
• Be mindful of road salt use. Shovel first, use road salt sparingly and sweep up any excess for reuse.
• Maintain your car. Repair and clean up leaks quickly and use commercial car washes where possible.
• Use native plants, shrubs and trees​. They require less fertilizer and water.
• Keep litter and yard waste off the streets. Place waste in the proper bins and keep catch basins clear.
  

Dispose of pool water responsibly. Follow City of Brampton guidelines​ for safe draining, including chemical and timing requirements.

Pollution Prevention Week is an opportunity for Brampton residents to learn how everyday actions can support a cleaner, safer and more sustainable city. By working together, residents and the City can protect local waterways, improve air quality and build a healthier environment for all.​

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