Earth Day has been celebrated on April 22 since 1970.

The 2026 Earth Day Canada theme is Conscious Consumption. Mindful consumption encourages us to be more intentional in what we buy and use, choosing quality, durability, and value over quantity. It is about reducing our environmental impact while supporting well made products and enhancing overall well-being, without suggesting we have to go without.

In support of Earth Day, we will be raising our Earth Day flag on April 22. We also are highlighting a range of programs, services, and initiatives that help protect and care for the environment in our community.

SUPER Speak-Off

On April 30, the City of St. John’s will welcome Grade 6 students to take part in the SUPER Speak-Off (Speak Up and Promote Environmental Responsibility), where they will share their ideas for a more sustainable future. Through speeches on topics they care about, students explore environmental issues, build confidence, and inspire positive change in their community.

Compost Giveaway

Compost is available to residents beginning April 28 until November at the Residential Drop-Off (RDO) at the Robin Hood Bay Waste Management Facility (340 East White Hills Road). The RDO is open Tuesdays to Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents must use the designated RDO entrance, bring their own containers and shovel, and ensure all loads are covered and secured before leaving the site. The compost is produced from yard waste collected by the City in paper yard waste bags since 2018.

Backyard Composting

Backyard composting helps reduce climate-changing emissions while returning valuable carbon to the soil, supporting healthier trees and plants. The City of St. John’s, in partnership with Memorial University Botanical Garden and MMSB, offers a free backyard composting course, available both in person and online. After completing the course, residents are eligible to purchase a backyard compost bin from the City at a subsidized cost.

Upcoming in person sessions (pre-registration is not required):

• MUN Botanical Garden, 306 Mount Scio Road: Saturday, May 2 from 1 to 2:15 p.m.
• MUN Botanical Garden, 306 Mount Scio Road: Saturday, May 30 from 1 to 2 p.m.

Online sessions are available at any time by visiting the MUN Botanical Garden website.

Organize a Community Clean-Up

Looking for a meaningful way to make a difference in your neighbourhood? The City of St. John’s is here to help you organize a community clean-up!

The City of St. John’s is proud to support local clean-ups across the city. Whether you're tidying up a trail, park, street, or shoreline, we’ll provide free garbage bags and help with proper disposal. All you need to bring is your community spirit! Let’s work together to Clean St. John’s – one bag at a time.

Learn more

Make The Shift

Thinking about making your home more energy efficient? The Shift Program, delivered by econext in partnership with the City of St. John’s, helps take the guesswork out of upgrades. Free for residents, it connects you with a Home Energy Navigator who guides you through audits, rebates, financing options, and the best upgrades for your home, helping you save energy, money and reduce your environmental impact.

Learn more or book a free appointment at maketheshiftnl.ca, or email hello@maketheshiftnl.ca.