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ReThink Disposable, a program of Clean Water Action and Clean Water Fund, aims to stop trash before it starts.

We work with local governments, businesses and institutions, and consumers of single use food packaging to inspire a cultural shift away from the single-use “throwaway” lifestyle.

By providing knowledge, guidance, and support, ReThink Disposable inspires change that leads to conserved resources, saved energy, and reduced litter polluting our oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Businesses & Organizations

Plate Fork Knife

 

Organizations large and small are saving $1000s of dollars each year and winning over their diners in a whole new way by championing our movement. Restaurants, cafes, venues, schools, non-profits, and many others are working with ReThink Disposable to switch foodware to sustainable alternatives for a long-term impact. Reduce Waste, Save Money, and Go Green - Join us!

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Local & State Governments

Government Building

 

Governments are joining us to take the lead on the global plastic pollution problem. ReThink Disposable is partnering with local and state governments to innovate new programs and policies to meet waste and litter prevention goals, reducing pollution in local waterways and beyond. We offer guidance and support for local businesses and organizations to achieve sustainable solutions, creating positive, long term, and healthier changes for the environment *and* for their bottom line!

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Individuals & Communities

Two figures sharing a high five

 

We couldn't be successful without a movement of ReThink Disposable champions and leaders to bring about change in their communities by stopping trash before it starts - and encouraging others to do the same! Here's how you can take ACTION now to reduce plastic pollution and be the change you want to see in the world!

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Our Impact

28,000,000
Pieces of single use foodware items replaced yearly
277,390
Pounds of waste no longer created every year
$744,774
Annual cost savings
500+
Number of business & organizational partners

Case Studies

Koreana Restaurant Storefront

Koreana Rittenhouse Square

Koreana, a restaurant known for its traditional Korean cuisine in Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, was already using many reusable foodware options for dine-in customers. Identifying further opportunities with ReThink Disposable they're saving an additional $3,109, reducing 758 lbs of trash annually, and seeing enthusiasm from customers!
Jean's Cafe

Jean's Cafe

Jean’s Cafe, located in Center City Philadelphia, is setting a new standard by coupling sustainability and the fast-paced take-away culture. By transitioning from 100% disposable foodware for dine-in to using exclusively reusable wares, Jean’s Cafe is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also saving.$2,063 annually - after factoring in water costs and labor for washing dishes!
Image of Clean Water Action and Franciscan Charities celebrating the Plastic Bag Ban

Franciscan Charities of Newark, NJ

ReThink Disposable provided Franciscan Charities of Newark with 400 sets of reusable food serviceware, eliminating 936,000 single-use disposables totaling 10,750 pounds from entering the waste stream annually and providing clients with a more dignified meal experience. "We are appreciative that we won’t only save up to $50,000 every year but we are also moving towards being better stewards of our environment." - Director Melissa Hillier, Franciscan Charities of Newark

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Publications