CEM celebrates sustainability at Taste of Asia and Arbour Day

by Ramon Sales

	Recycle Everywhere and CEM volunteers with Taste of Asia organizers who championed a forward‑thinking, community‑driven waste sorting initiative

Caring for our Environment - Manitoba (CEM) took a meaningful step toward environmental stewardship as it partnered with the Taste of Asia Festival to launch an innovative waste sorting initiative during the two-day celebration held at Memorial Boulevard and Legislature Park on May 30 and 31, 2026. The program introduced new incentives for both attendees and vendors, aiming to promote responsible waste practices and build long term momentum for a cleaner, greener province.

Supported by the Canadian Beverage Container Recycling Association (CBCRA) - Recycle Everywhere, along with Royal Bank of Canada, the initiative sought to expand public awareness of proper recycling habits while encouraging community participation. Organizers emphasized that small, consistent actions at large public events can significantly reduce landfill waste and inspire broader environmental change.

As part of the partnership with Recycle Everywhere, festival goers who demonstrated proper waste segregation received reusable bamboo straws, mini recycling bins, and bin bags. These items served both as rewards and as practical tools to reinforce sustainable habits beyond the event. Two volunteers were also recognized for their outstanding commitment to recycling and were awarded Yeti Rambler Straw Mugs. The message was clear: collective action keeps our community green.

Vendors were equally engaged in the sustainability effort. Blank Slush earned the Most Sustainable Vendor Award, with Thida’s Thai Restaurant named runner up. The awards were determined using a comprehensive set of criteria applied by the three‑member CEM Evaluation Team, composed of Elizabeth de Leon, Roman Nepomuceno, and Ramon Sales, Jr. Judges assessed the use of eco‑friendly packaging such as paper and compostable cartons along with recyclable or reusable utensils, including wooden cutlery and paper straws. Clear signage for proper waste sorting, efforts to minimize waste, booth cleanliness, and incentives for customers to bring reusable containers were also key factors. These recognitions underscore the growing leadership of local businesses in advancing environmental responsibility.

World Environment Day and CEM’s 9th anniversary

Just days later, the momentum continued. On June 6, 2026, CEM marked its ninth anniversary by once again partnering with Trees Winnipeg for the annual Arbour Day celebration at Bruce Park. This year’s event also honoured World Environment Day, bringing together volunteers, families, and community groups for a meaningful day of action.

In collaboration with the University of the Philippines Alumni and Associates in Manitoba (UPAA MB), participants planted trees, distributed bin bags, and worked side by side to promote a cleaner and more sustainable future. The gathering celebrated not only environmental protection but also nine years of CEM’s service and dedication to inspiring greener habits across Manitoba.

Organizers reflected on the milestone as a reminder of how far the community has come and how much more can be achieved. “Nine years strong and still committed to a cleaner, greener, more sustainable world,” the group shared, encouraging Manitobans to continue pushing for positive change.

From waste sorting at cultural festivals to community tree planting, these initiatives underscore a shared purpose: nurturing a healthier environment for future generations. Together, Manitobans are proving that small actions, multiplied across communities, can grow into lasting impact. As Manitoba continues to lead with purpose and collaboration, the path toward sustainability becomes clearer. Let’s continue this momentum and grow a greener tomorrow.

Ramon Sales is currently the president of Caring for our Environment - Manitoba (CEM).