City-wide multi-unit organics program recommended by end of 2028

Following a year-long pilot study, City Administration recommends a community-wide multi-unit organics program be implemented by the City. This program will further improve waste diversion in Saskatoon and see all residents have access to the same waste services.

“Expanding organics collection to multi-unit residences is a critical step in Saskatoon’s waste diversion strategy,” says Jeanna South, Director of Sustainability. “From the feedback we heard, a City-provided service will ensure a consistent and cost-efficient program that builds on the success of the residential curbside organics program and supports the long-term sustainability of our new organics processing facility.” 

A report to the May 6, 2025 meeting of the Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services provides a detailed analysis of the options available to the City for multi-unit organics programs.

The recommendation follows engagement with pilot participants, including residents, condominium boards and property managers. A City-provided service was both the preferred option by participants and is expected to be lowest cost option when compared to current market options. Organic material gathered through the program would be handled at the City’s organic processing facility, which begins construction this July. In addition, this approach is expected to achieve higher rates of waste diversion by aligning education programs and enforcement efforts to support program goals.

In Spring 2023, the green cart was successfully introduced to single-detached dwellings across the city, diverting over 41,000 tonnes — equal to about 3,500 full garbage trucks — of organic waste from the Saskatoon landfill to date.

Following approval, different deployment options will be evaluated that aim to have a city-wide program fully operational by the end of 2028. All impacted properties would be given a minimum of one-year advance notice.

To learn more about the pilot program, visit saskatoon.ca/multiorganics.