Mother Earth Recycling Inc.(MER) is an Indigenous Social Enterprise in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Our mission is to provide meaningful training and employment opportunities to the urban Indigenous community through environmentally sustainable initiatives as well do our part in the Indigenous tradition of being “stewards of the land” through recycling.  In a profound statement, Chief Seattle stated, “We don’t inherit the earth, we borrow it from our children.”

MER began in 2012 as a partnership between Neeginan Centre, the Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development, and the Aboriginal Council of Winnipeg, as a place for community members to find training and job opportunities, while providing a much-needed service to the City.

As a trusted partner to government agencies, non-profits, and private corporations, MER offers mattress, box springs, and e-waste pickup and drop off from residential homes, businesses, and industries across Manitoba.

 Our mattress recycling program has been around for over 10 years and continues to grow year over year.  Our electronic waste recycling facility has met (or exceeded) EPRA(Electronic Products Recycling Association) regulations and guidelines since initial operations began in 2012.

Part of the early success of MER is due to its innovative collaboration and partnerships. Our owners and all three levels of government have invested resources in the development of MER. Public participation and support have also greatly contributed to our years of success.

The act of recycling has cultural significance for Indigenous communities. Embedded within traditional Indigenous worldviews is the concept of collective responsibility to respect and maintain the natural environment, and use only what is needed for sustenance. While we work with modern technologies, our commitment to environmental sustainability will allow our Indigenous employees to reconnect with an integral part of their culture.