Oakland, CA - Clean Water Fund’s ReThink Disposable program, working with grant funding from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and The Ocean Foundation, has worked with five community restaurants in Fruitvale to reduce single use plastic waste and save money by converting their dine-in foodware to reusable.
On the heels of Oakland passing one of the strongest reusable foodware and plastic litter reduction ordinances in the Bay Area, ReThink Disposable, working with The Unity Council and the owners of Oakland’s historic Huarache Azteca restaurant, was able to offer free technical assistance to five restaurants in the storied neighborhood of the Fruitvale. ReThink did not do any conversion of the restaurant’s to-go foodware, but did convert 100% of dine-in foodware to reusables. Restaurants received up to $500 in funding to purchase reusable, washable dine-in foodware to help offset the cost of making these changes.
“We were excited about this case study as we feel it showcases the best of ReThink’s work,” says Julie Wedge, California ReThink Disposable Director. “Even small dine-in conversions can make a big difference in the amount of single use disposables that enter our waste stream daily. These five restaurants are not only going to realize savings, but also significant plastic reduction and an elevated dining experience for their customers.”
Emil’s Burger & Breakfast, Hogar Latino Panaderia Y Restaurant, La Torta Loca, Parra’s, and Powderface teamed up to reduce single-use disposable waste by over 187,600 individual pieces and over 3,240 pounds annually. After an average payback period of 2.74 months, this group of restaurants will collectively be saving over $10,000 every year by purchasing fewer disposables.
“You brought some goodness to our restaurant! I tried the stainless-steel straws, and I really enjoy my jamaica drink now! I am excited that this will help us save money.” says Carlos Parra, Owner of Parra’s.
ReThink Disposable has converted over 600 restaurants and venues around the Bay Area, and this is only the beginning.
Check out out Fruitvale Community Restaurants: ReThink Disposable Case Study
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About Clean Water Fund’s ReThink Disposable Program - ReThink Disposable focuses on reducing single-use plastics and advocating for sustainable alternatives in the food service industry. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, Rethink Disposable promotes practical, reuse-focused solutions that benefit both the environment and society. For more information, visit ReThinkDisposable.org