Small changes at home add up to a big difference for the environment. Here are practical things you can do to reduce waste, keep harmful materials out of landfills and waterways, and help Alameda County meet its climate and sustainability goals.

Reduce Food Waste and Compost

Up to a third of food produced goes uneaten — wasting the water, energy, and resources used to grow, process, and transport it. Simple habits make a real difference:

  • Plan meals and shop with a list to avoid buying more than you need
  • Store food properly to keep it fresh longer
  • Use your green bin for food scraps, coffee grounds, and compostable paper — all Alameda County residents have curbside organics collection
  • Start composting at home to turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil

Learn more through Compost & Soil Health programs and food waste reduction resources.

Choose Reusables

Single-use plastics and disposables are one of the largest sources of litter and waste. Switching to reusables is one of the easiest ways to reduce your environmental footprint:

  • Bring reusable bags when shopping — single-use plastic bags are prohibited at retail checkout in Alameda County
  • Carry a reusable water bottle and coffee cup
  • Bring your own containers for takeout and leftovers when dining out
  • Look for restaurants using reusable foodware in your community

Explore tips for residents on reusable foodware.

Buy Green

The products you choose matter. Buying sustainably — and buying less — reduces the demand for raw materials and the waste that comes with them:

  • Choose products with recycled content and minimal packaging
  • Look for green certifications like ENERGY STAR, Green Seal, or FSC
  • Shop secondhand for furniture, clothing, electronics, and household goods
  • Find local reuse and repair options through the RE:Source guide

Get more tips for buying green.

Dispose of Items Responsibly

When items can't be reused or recycled, proper disposal keeps them out of streets, parks, and waterways:

  • Schedule a free bulky pickup for large items like furniture, mattresses, and appliances — contact your waste hauler
  • Self-haul to a transfer station for construction debris and large loads
  • Donate usable items to local charities or give them away through neighborhood networks
  • Never leave items on the curb outside a scheduled pickup — it creates hazards and attracts more dumping

Learn more about proper disposal and reporting illegal dumping.

Handle Hazardous Waste Safely

Batteries, paint, cleaning chemicals, electronics, medications, and fluorescent bulbs should never go in the trash, recycling, or down the drain. These materials can contaminate soil, water, and air when disposed of improperly.

Repair and Extend Product Life

Fixing things instead of replacing them saves resources and keeps usable items out of landfills:

  • Attend a repair event in your community — volunteers help fix clothing, electronics, small appliances, and more at Repair Events
  • Find a repair professional through the Repair Network
  • Use online repair guides like iFixit for DIY fixes