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Switching from single-use to reusable plates, cups, and utensils reduces waste, cuts costs, and keeps harmful plastics out of our environment. The Alameda County Department of Environmental Health confirms that reusable foodware is safe when properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized. StopWaste provides funding, hands-on support, and resources to help food businesses, schools, and institutions across Alameda County make the transition.


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onsite dining

AUDIENCE

Restaurants & Cafes

Food businesses that replace disposable foodware with real cups, plates and utensils for dine-in customers can save thousands of dollars each year. Explore StopWaste Mini-Grants to help make the switch, learn about foodware related state and local regulations, and more.
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reusables at schools

AUDIENCE

Schools & Institutions

A growing number of K–12 schools are switching from disposable to reusable foodware for school meals. StopWaste offers resources, grants, and on-the-ground support to help schools and institutions with closed-environment dining settings make this transition.
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bring your own coffee cup

AUDIENCE

Residents

Bring your own cups, utensils, and bags—or borrow a reusable cup through Okapi. Simple steps to cut food packaging waste at home and on the go.

Resources

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Funding & Grants

Grant funding and technical assistance for restaurants, cafes, schools and institutions.
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accessories by request

Policy & Legislation

State and local foodware regulations, including StopWaste's adoption-ready Model Ordinance.
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commercial dishwasher filled with plates

Service Providers

Directory of Reuse Service Providers.
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deli and owner

Success Stories

See how local businesses and schools have cut costs and waste by switching to reusable foodware.