Environmentally Friendly Packaging

Trash-Free San Ramon is invested in reducing single-use foodware and in assisting businesses and the public in making the transition from single-use foodware to reusable foodware and compostable fiber-based foodware. 

Businesses that want to reduce their use of single-use foodware can visit the Polystyrene Foam Ban webpage. Residents that want to help the City and businesses reduce their use of single-use foodware to be Trash-Free can do the following:

1. Support Trash-Free Businesses

    TFSR logo
  • Shop at Trash-Free Friendly Stores: Frequent businesses that are committed to Trash-Free practices. Look for stores that offer bulk goods, reusable packaging, and sustainable products. Click here for a list of Trash-Free businesses.
  • Choose Eco-Friendly Products: Opt for products with minimal or no packaging, made from recycled or sustainable materials.

2. Practice Responsible Consumption

  • Bring Your Own Containers: When possible, use your own reusable bags, containers, and utensils instead of single-use items.

Eater bottleGlass tupperware with food

 

  • Avoid Over-Purchasing: Buy only what you need to reduce excess waste. 

3. Advocate and Educate

  • Spread Awareness: Share information about zero waste practices and businesses with friends and family to increase awareness and encourage participation.
  • Participate in Community Events: Join or organize events that promote Trash-Free living.

4. Provide Feedback

  • Communicate with Businesses:  Offer feedback to businesses on their Trash-Free practices and suggest improvements. Positive reinforcement can encourage them to adopt more sustainable practices.

     If you notice any vendors still using polystyrene foam foodware, please report it to City staff here so we can assist them in transitioning to alternative options.

  • Support Businesses in Transition: Encourage and support businesses that are transitioning to zero waste practices by being patient and understanding of their evolving processes.

5. Engage in Local Initiatives

  • Participate in Clean-Up Events: Join local clean-up events to help reduce litter and demonstrate the importance of waste management.

Kids picking-up litter

  • Support Policy Changes: Advocate for local and national policies that encourage waste reduction and Trash-Free practices.

6. Adopt Trash-Free Habits

  • Remember to Reduce and Reuse:Recycling turns used paper and plastic jugs into new products, but these materials can only be recycled a limited number of times. Equally important are reusing and reducing, which extend the life of your belongings and reduce the amount of waste you generate. Give reusing and reducing a try!
  • Compost: Follow ACI of San Ramon's compost guidelines. Composting organic waste to reduce the amount of garbage sent to landfills. 

By supporting and following Trash-Free principles, you can encourage businesses to focus on sustainability and make real progress in reducing waste.