World Cleanup Day is observed annually on September 20 to mobilise action against waste and pollution and promote waste reduction in communities.
The 2026 theme, “From Clean Plates to Clean Cities,” highlights the urgent need to tackle food waste, which remains a major global challenge.
Households account for about 60 per cent of consumer food waste, making individual and community action an important part of addressing the problem.
Food waste also contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, meaning efforts to prevent food from being wasted can help reduce the environmental impact of food production and consumption and support action against climate change.
Beyond food waste, organised cleanup activities help remove waste from public spaces, reduce pollution and promote cleaner surroundings.
Such efforts also encourage communities to adopt more responsible waste-management practices.
Ultimately, reducing waste and keeping communities clean can contribute to healthier and more sustainable environments for everyone, in line with the United Nations’ emphasis on collective action to address pollution and environmental challenges.
