ReThink Disposable

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.

Rhode Island ReThink Disposable: Stop Trash Before It Starts

Businesses

Organizations large and small are saving thousands of dollars each year, and winning over their customers in a whole new way by championing our movement. For businesses, ReThink Disposable is a "win-win". Reduce Waste, Save Money, and Go Green - Join us!

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Governments

Governments are joining us to take the lead on the global plastic pollution problem. We partner 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.

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Community

We couldn't be successful without a movement of ReThink Disposable champions and leaders to bring about change in their communities. 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 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, 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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ReThink Disposable - Businesses

Organizations large and small are saving thousands of dollars each year, and winning over their customers in a whole new way by championing our movement. For businesses, ReThink Disposable is a "win-win!" Join us!

Take the ReThink Disposable Pledge to Reduce Single-Use!

There are so many things you can do to reduce your disposables footprint. These are our Top 10 actions for how to ReThink Disposable Make a pledge below to continue doing the ones you already do, and choose the new actions you are willing to commit to!

ReThink Disposable - Governments

Governments are joining us to take the lead on the global plastic pollution problem. We partner with local and state governments to innovate new programs and policies to meet their waste and litter prevention goals, reducing pollution in local waterways and the ocean.