Simple actions you can take today:
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Reduce:
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Opt out of single-use plastic utensils, condiment packets and napkins:
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Starting on January 1, 2022 restaurants can only provide these items if a customer requests them.
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Food ordering apps must update their online ordering platforms to enable customers to top-in to request specific items.
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Let your favorite restaurant know about the serve-on-request requirements
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Buy dry staples like rice and nuts in bulk, packaged in your own containers or bags and avoid the disposable packaging
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Make or grow your own to avoid the packaging
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You can make your own bread, yogurt and other foods
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You can grow your own herbs and veggies
Did You Know: You can leave DOEE a tip if you suspect a business is not in compliance with DC recycling and zero waste laws and regulations
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Reuse:
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Switch from single-use to reusables
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Use reusable water bottles and shopping bags
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Carry your own utensils
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Support restaurants and bars that serve on reusable plates and cups or let you bring your own takeout container .
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Recycle:
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Get rid of your bulk waste or check the Mayor’s Office of the Clean City Facebook and Twitter feed for updates on bulk waste roll-offs in different Wards
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Ask @CharDreizen on Twitter and @charrecycles on Instagram. She knows the recycling rules inside out!
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NOTE: Never place single-use plastic grocery bags in the blue recycle bin
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Compost:
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Take training and get a rebate for home composting
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Hire a compost pickup service
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Ask your apartment building, co-op or condo to provide compost collection for residents.
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Click on our Compost Campaign page for more