Nearly 500 organisations have signed up for Recycling Week 2026, more than doubling participation levels since 2022.

The nationwide campaign, running from October 19-25, is New Zealand’s largest waste minimisation and recycling education initiative.

In a media release, organisers said the strong uptake reflected growing public expectations for organisations to take responsibility for their environmental impact.

According to the 2025 Kantar Better Futures Report, 89% of New Zealanders believe businesses should be accountable for their environmental and social impacts, while 60% are willing to spend time and money supporting responsible companies.

This year’s Recycling Week theme, “Identifying Opportunities”, encourages participants to look beyond recycling and focus on reducing waste at its source.

The campaign promotes the waste hierarchy approach, helping organisations find practical ways to prevent waste, improve resource efficiency and drive long-term behavioural change.

Reclaim general manager of sales and sustainability Jonny O’Rourke said organisations were increasingly asking how they could avoid creating waste in the first place rather than simply finding ways to recycle it.

“We’re witnessing a shift in mindset,” O’Rourke said.

“Reducing waste not only benefits the environment but also helps organisations operate more efficiently, reduce costs and engage employees. The fact that nearly 500 organisations have already registered shows sustainability is becoming integral to how New Zealand organisations conduct business.”

Communities around the country are also backing the campaign, with major landmarks set to be illuminated green during the week. Confirmed sites include Auckland’s Sky Tower and Eden Park, Wellington’s Cable Car Tunnels, Rotorua’s Government Gardens archway, Gisborne’s Clock Tower and the Ōamaru Opera House.

Nearly 500 organisations have already registered for Recycling Week 2026, reflecting growing interest in waste reduction and sustainability initiatives across New Zealand.

Participants will have access to free resources, educational materials and practical activities linked to daily waste hierarchy themes. Popular Rethink Sessions featuring expert speakers and live question-and-answer sessions will also return.

Recycling Week was established by Reclaim in 2013 and has experienced significant growth in recent years.

Registrations have risen from 149 businesses and 35 schools in 2022 to 405 businesses and 84 schools that are already signed up for the 2026 campaign.

Organisers said the initiative aims to help organisations at every stage of their sustainability journey by providing practical tools and ideas to reduce waste and improve environmental performance.

Registration is free through the Recycling Week website.