Zero Waste

Zero Waste focuses on redesigning the entire system of product usage rather than just advocating for less trash or more recycling. 

• Focused on optimal consumption
• Ensures that all/most parts of a product are being recycled/reused
• Reducing Waste at the source

The state of California has implemented these policies moving towards zero waste, and they have been in effect since January 1, 2026 and January 1, 2022.

• Plastic Bag Ban (SB 1053)
  • In 2014, California banned thin plastic bags in grocery stores and allowed the usage of thicker plastic bags that could be reused.
  • Due to little reuse of these thicker bags, California is the first state to ban plastic bags at retail and grocery stores, requiring shoppers to buy a bag out of recycled paper for 10 cents or to bring their own bags.
  • In 2028, the state will require these recycled paper bags to contain at least 50% postconsumer recycled materials
• State Organics Law (SB 1383)
  • Goal is to reduce organic waste in landfills to decrease methane emissions
  • Requires residents and businesses must:
    • sort through and recycle organic waste like food scraps and debris
    • Subscribe to organic waste collection service
    • Service businesses donate food unsold and edible food
• State and Federal resources to learn more about zero waste
  • Californians Against Waste - Zero Waste Issues
  • Zero Waste USA - Education

• IWMA– The IWMA of SLO County is an agency that helps manage local solid waste programs
  • Their Recycling Guide teaches you how to dispose of items in SLO County. 
  • The IWMA also runs the Edible Food Recovery Program: food generators (grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, etc.) are required to donate all leftover or unsold food to a food recovery organization
    • This helps both the community and our earth by preventing excess methane emission that occurs from anaerobic respiration.

• ECOSLO (Green Business Program)
  • “The SLO County Green Business Program, part of the statewide California Green Business Network (CAGBN), provides free technical assistance and resources to help small and medium-sized businesses improve their operations, cut costs, and reduce their environmental impact.”
• SLO County Waste Requirements
  • Polystyrene (EPS) – In 2015 the city regulated the usage of EPS
    • Prohibits the sale/usage of eps food/drink container and must use a recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable product instead
  • Straws Upon Request – In 2018 the city required vendors ask customer if they would like a straw before handing them out
  • Single-Use Plastic Bottles/Cups Regulations – In 2018, it became effective in the city that single use plastics contain 21 fluid ounces or less, and bottles/cups exceeding this capacity are not used with single use plastics

• Behavior to keep your eye out for in businesses:
  • Does a restaurant give you Styrofoam takeout containers?
  • Does a grocery store give out plastic bags?
  • Does your landlord offer you access to a green waste bin?
• Communicate your concerns to the business
  • Tell them how much you love their business, but that you do not want to use their plastic bags, Styrofoam containers, plastic straws, etc.
  • Suggest temporary solutions to them like only handing out plastic upon request or connect them with the Ecoslo Green Business Grants to help them switch to more sustainable products like biodegradable utensils and straws.
• Email template or script to express your concerns:
  • “Hello, ___. I want to let you know I love your business and have great experiences when I eat/shop here. However, I and many other people have become increasingly focused on zero waste initiatives, and would really appreciate it if you stop using ____ at your business. I hope you are able to brainstorm solutions to this issue such as ____ or ____, as I would love to continue to support your business”
• Resources to report a business going against waste policies in SLO County:
  • Illegal Dumping/Excessive Littering
  • Recycling Services 
  • Environmental Complaint System

• Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Compost!!!

• Buy in bulk/refillable - places to buy bulk or refill in SLO County:
  • SLO Food Co-op – Bulk/refillable food, spices and beauty products! Located in San Luis Obispo.
  • The Mayan Collective LLC – Hand & dish soap, shampoo, detergent, etc. Locations in San Luis Obispo and Arroyo Grande.
  • Central Coast Refillery – Extensive menu with bathroom products, oral care, essential oils, and all of your other necessities! Located in Atascadero.
  • Costco Wholesale – Location in San Luis Obispo.
  • Grocery Outlet – Locations across SLO County.
• Purchase produce at farmer’s markets to avoid plastic - find a SLO county Farmers Market near you!
• Buy second hand - best thrift stores in SLO
• Repair broken items instead of buying a new one - find a Repair Café
• Use shampoo/conditioner bars instead of bottles - recommended brands:
  • Ethique
  • HiBAR
  • The Earthling Co.
• Bring your own bags and cups to grocery stores and coffee shops (bonus points if you make it cute!)