◈ Homepage — https://www.stopwaste.org/Skip to main content Utility navigation English Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Programs & Services Rules & Compliance Resources For About Us Image The less we waste, the better off we all are StopWaste partners with residents, businesses, schools, and local governments in Alameda County to reduce waste and conserve resources to protect the environment and support healthy communities. 35% of our waste is compostable Food scraps and food-soiled paper are the largest part of what we throw away. We're working to ensure this material is composted instead of sent to landfill. Community & the environment first From food to buildings, we’re advancing solutions that cut wasted materials, save energy, and reduce climate impacts across Alameda County. Strengthening food recovery systems Millions of pounds of surplus edible food from businesses is being recovered every year, helping expand access to healthy food across Alameda County. Image DON'T KNOW WHERE IT GOES? Check RE:Source Guide The RE:Source Guide provides answers on how to recycle, reuse, repair, and safely dispose of just about anything. Just search an item by your nearest options. Visit RE:Source Learn More Programs and Services Browse our programs and services to find tools, guidance, and support to reduce waste, conserve resources, and properly recycle and compost. Food Waste Find tips to reduce food waste and edible food recovery and donation resources Compost & Soil Health Discover how to make and use compost and access community gardening events Buildings & Construction Learn ways we help make buildings more sustainable and energy efficient Reducing Waste Explore resources to help you switch to reusables and reuse or repair everyday items. Recycling & Disposal Find out what goes where in your curbside bins and how to properly dispose of hazardous waste School Programs K-12 programs and curriculum to help reduce food waste, switch to reusables, sort properly, and take action Find what you need Whether you’re a resident, business, school or member agency – resources are available for all Image Residents Image Businesses Image Schools Image Local Governments Image HAZARDOUS WASTE Drop Off Paint, Batteries, Electronics & More Paint, electronics, chemicals, and motor oil don't belong in your curbside bins. Alameda County residents can drop off these items at any of four facilities for free — no appointment needed. Just drive up, pop your trunk, and our staff handles the rest. Find a Drop-off Facility Image RECYCLING & COMPOSTING RULES How to Comply with SB 1383 California law SB 1383 requires California residents and businesses to keep food and other compostable materials out of landfills to help fight climate change. In partnership with Alameda County’s environmental health departments, StopWaste offers resources as well as free, personalized support to help businesses and multifamily properties comply. Learn More What’s New See the latest stories, tips, and highlights from StopWaste. View all articles Image NEWS StopWaste Earns Recertification as a California Green Business The California Green Business Network has recognized StopWaste once again as a certified Green Business. We are proud to join hundreds of other businesses in Alameda County and over 4,000 across California that are committed to being environmentally friendly and minimizing their impact on the environment. Image ARTICLE New StopWaste Regulatory Fee Supports State-Required Programs Starting July 1, 2026, a StopWaste Regulatory Fee will appear on customer garbage bills in Alameda County. The fee helps fund programs required by California to keep compostable and recyclable materials out of landfills, reduce food waste, recover surplus edible food for donation, and to prevent plastic bag pollution. Image NEWS StopWaste Wins $150,000 Re-X Before Recycling Prize StopWaste is honored to announce that we have been named a winner of Phase 2 of the Re-X Before Recycling Prize by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office. Upcoming Board Meetings MAY 14 Programs & Administration Committee May 14, 2026 at 9:00am StopWaste, 1537 Webster Street, Oakland, CA 94612 Full Packet MAY 14 Recycling Board / Planning Committee May 14, 2026 at 4:00pm StopWaste, 1537 Webster Street, Oakland, CA 94612 Full Packet MAY 27 Waste Management Authority Board / Energy Council May 27, 2026 at 3:00pm StopWaste, 1537 Webster Street, Oakland, CA 94612 View Full Calendar Receive Updates & Stay Connected Stay updated on sustainability tips, events, and news. Subscribe Footer Main Programs & Services Food Compost & Soil Health Schools Reducing Waste Recycling & Disposal Buildings & Construction Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Rules Food Donation & Recovery Rules Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Youth About Us Who We Are News Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs ©2026 StopWaste / Privacy Policy / Translation Disclaimer ◈ Interior Pages — 10 pages crawledRecycling & Disposal | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home Recycling & Disposal Recycling, Composting, and Disposal Guide for Alameda County Find the right way to recycle, compost, donate, or dispose of any item in Alameda County — from everyday recyclables to hazardous materials. Find out how to recycle, compost, donate, or dispose of items in Alameda County. Whether you're confused about what goes in your curbside bins, getting rid of old paint, or figuring out what to do with a broken TV, we'll help you put things in the right place. Icon Cards How Can We Help? What Goes Where? Find out what goes in each of your curbside bins and what to do with other tricky items. Dispose of Hazardous Waste Drop off paint, batteries, chemicals, electronics, and more at four free facilities. Search for Any Item Use the RE:Source Guide to find recycling, reuse, repair, and disposal options. Image + Text Image FREE SERVICE Drop Off Hazardous Waste for Free Paint, batteries, electronics, motor oil, and more. Alameda County residents can drop off household hazardous waste at any of four facilities — no appointment needed. Just drive up, pop your trunk, and our staff handles the rest. Find a Facility What's Accepted Numbers Cards Recycling & Disposal by the Numbers 4 Free HHW facilities across the county. 80+ Pharmacy kiosks for medication disposal. 12+ One-day hazardous waste events per year. Guides & Tools Not everything fits neatly into a bin. Our Material Fact Sheets cover items that need special handling — from batteries and paint to textiles and electronics. Planning a move, holiday, or spring cleaning? Check our Special Occasions guides . Need signs for your bins or help setting up a recycling program? Our free Tools & Signage resources include a custom sign designer, visual sorting guides, and a materials flow map showing where your recycling actually goes. Call to Action Need Help? Search the RE:Source Guide to find the right way to recycle, compost, donate, or dispose of any item. Search RE:Source Guide Receive Updates & Stay Connected Stay updated on sustainability tips, events, and news. Subscribe Footer Main Programs & Services Food Compost & Soil Health Schools Reducing Waste Recycling & Disposal Buildings & Construction Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Rules Food Donation & Recovery Rules Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Youth About Us Who We Are News Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs ©2026 StopWaste / Privacy Policy / Translation Disclaimer Get Compost & Mulch | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Get Compost & Mulch in Alameda County Find local sources for bulk compost and mulch, including free compost hubs, agricultural programs, a vendor marketplace, and compost quality guidance. Tools for Getting Compost and Mulch Alameda County has access to many different sources of locally produced bulk compost and mulch, vermicompost (worm castings), as well as sheet mulching materials like rolled and scavenged cardboard. Look through the various options that best fit your project type. Wayfinding Cards Image Compost Hubs Access free compost at multiple Compost Hub locations throughout Alameda County, available year-round to residential and community gardeners. Image Alameda County Compost for Agriculture Program (ACCAP) Apply for large volumes of free or subsidized bulk compost, available to agricultural producers and urban farms in Alameda County. Image Compost and Mulch Marketplace A directory of Bay Area vendors selling and delivering bulk compost, mulch, and sheet mulching materials. Image + Text Image How do you know if your compost is high quality? Assessing Compost Characteristics and Quality Did you know that there are varieties of compost with different uses? How do you know if you're receiving high quality compost? We'll help clarify how commercial composters manage quality concerns such as heavy metals, pathogens, weed seeds, and contamination, and how you can verify characteristics and quality indicators for a specific compost product. LEARN MORE Receive Updates & Stay Connected Stay updated on sustainability tips, events, and news. Subscribe Footer Main Programs & Services Food Compost & Soil Health Schools Reducing Waste Recycling & Disposal Buildings & Construction Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Rules Food Donation & Recovery Rules Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Youth About Us Who We Are News Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs ©2026 StopWaste / Privacy Policy / Translation Disclaimer Food Donation Rules | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home Rules & Compliance Food Donation Rules Food Donation and Recovery Rules Certain businesses and institutions must recover and donate surplus edible food under California's SB 1383. Learn who's covered, how to set up your program, and how to stay compliant. Minimize Surplus Edible Food First Before focusing on surplus food donation, consider operational changes that can reduce how much edible food goes unused in the first place — such as improved inventory management, menu planning, portion adjustments, and staff training. For practical tools and programs to help your business reduce food waste at the source, visit Reducing Food Waste for Businesses . Three Core Requirements SB 1383 requires commercial food generators of a certain size to recover any surplus edible food and donate it to nourish people instead of sending it to landfill or composting. The goal is to cut greenhouse gas emissions while helping to nourish communities across Alameda County. Find out if your site is covered under the law . Have a written agreement with at least one food recovery organization or service. Maintain monthly records of the type, frequency, and pounds of food donated. Donate the maximum amount of edible food that would otherwise be discarded. Citations and fines up to $500 are being issued for non-compliance. Inspectors may arrive unannounced to check for written agreements and monthly donation records. If you've received a notice, visit the Citations & Enforcement section to learn more. Wayfinding Cards How to Comply in Four Steps Image 1. Assess Your Surplus Edible Food Find out if your business is required to donate surplus food under SB 1383, and learn how to assess the edible food your operation generates. Image 2. Find a Food Recovery Partner Search for food recovery organizations in Alameda County that can pick up and redistribute your surplus edible food. Image 3. Establish a Donation Process Set up a written agreement with a food recovery organization, establish donation procedures, and train your staff. Image 4. Track Donations and Keep Records Monthly record-keeping is required under SB 1383. Download tracking forms, learn about tax benefits, and find out about alternative compliance options. Top Resources to Start a Food Recovery Program Food Donation Guide Step-by-step guide for setting up a surplus food recovery & donation program, including how to find a non-profit donation partner. Includes guidance on legal protections and safe food handling requirements. View/download Guide Find Food Recovery Partners Find food recovery organizations and services in Alameda County, searchable by service area, donations accepted and collection method. Browse Directory Food Recovery Agreement Template Use this customizable food recovery agreement to formalize food donation arrangements with one or more food recovery partners and/or services. Required to have on-site during inspections. View/download template Printable Food Donation Log Download and print this record keeping template to track your monthly surplus edible food donations, as required by law. the records can also help you can tax benefits for your business. View/download template Image + Text Image TOP RESOURCES Guides by Industry Tailored guides are available for your specific business type, including grocery stores, restaurants, schools, hotels, health facilities, and wholesale distributors. VIEW INDUSTRY GUIDES Wayfinding Cards Additional Resources Image Food Donation FAQ Common questions about SB 1383 food recovery requirements, including waivers, record-keeping, liability protection, and what to do if your donations are declined. Image Food Safety & Date Labels Understanding date labels helps maximize safe food donations. Learn which foods can be donated past their printed dates and what to always exclude. Image For Food Recovery Organizations Food recovery organizations must maintain monthly records of food recovered from commercial generators and submit annual reports. Learn about compliance steps and reporting deadlines. Who Must Comply The law affects only larger commercial food generators: "Tier 1" Sites "Tier 2" Sites Supermarkets with $2 million or more in annual gross sales Hotels with 200 or more rooms Grocery stores exceeding 10,000 square feet Health facilities with 100 or more beds Food service providers (caterers, cafeterias) Large venues and events with 2,000+ daily attendees Food distributors Restaurants exceeding 5,000 square feet OR with 250+ seats Wholesale food vendors State agency facilities with on-site food service Local education agencies (public schools and districts) If your organization generates significant amounts of edible surplus food, you may be subject to these requirements even if you don't fit the categories above exactly. Contact StopWaste to verify. Image + Text Image COMPLIANCE Need Help? StopWaste provides free assistance, including personalized consultations, staff training sessions, help setting up indoor bins, and more. Use the buttons below or contact us at 510-891-6575 to leave a message for a call back. GET SUPPORT ASK A QUESTION Call to Action Did You Receive a Letter? If you've received a notice about recycling, composting or surplus edible food recovery compliance, take action promptly to avoid future fines. Learn More Receive Updates & Stay Connected Stay updated on sustainability tips, events, and news. Subscribe Footer Main Programs & Services Food Compost & Soil Health Schools Reducing Waste Recycling & Disposal Buildings & Construction Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Rules Food Donation & Recovery Rules Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Youth Ab Who We Are | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home About Who We Are Who We Are StopWaste is a public agency serving the 1.7 million diverse residents of Alameda County. Formed in 1976, we work on behalf of 17 member agencies—the County, 14 cities, and 2 sanitary districts—committed to advancing environmental sustainability and building healthy, equitable, climate resilient communities in Alameda County. Our Vision An Alameda County in which people thrive and are empowered to utilize resources and energy in ways that are good for the health of our communities, our local economy, and the planet. Image + Text Image Our Current Goals StopWaste's work is guided by three long-term goals: building a healthy local food system that eliminates waste, advancing a thriving circular economy, and accelerating innovation in the built environment. We prevent wasted food, recover surplus food to nourish communities, and keep materials in circulation through reuse, repair, recycling, and composting—while helping communities across Alameda County cut pollution, save money, and meet California’s climate and waste goals. Learn More Our Governance StopWaste is a public agency governed by three boards made up of elected officials and citizen experts: Alameda County Waste Management Authority (ACWMA) — Manages solid waste facilities and oversees source reduction and recycling programs Alameda County Source Reduction and Recycling Board — Promotes recycling, market development, and grants to waste reduction enterprises Energy Council — Advances energy efficiency, clean energy, and climate resilience Learn more about our boards Wayfinding Cards Learn More Image Our History StopWaste has been a leader in environmental sustainability for Alameda County for 50 years. Image Staff Meet the team behind StopWaste's programs and services. Image Member Agencies StopWaste serves 17 member agencies across Alameda County, representing 1.7 million residents. Receive Updates & Stay Connected Stay updated on sustainability tips, events, and news. Subscribe Footer Main Programs & Services Food Compost & Soil Health Schools Reducing Waste Recycling & Disposal Buildings & Construction Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Rules Food Donation & Recovery Rules Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Youth About Us Who We Are News Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs ©2026 StopWaste / Privacy Policy / Translation Disclaimer Trainings and Workshops | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home Compost & Soil Health Trainings and Workshops Trainings, Workshops & Technical Assistance Access compost technical assistance, trainings, educational workshops, and volunteer opportunities across Alameda County. Learning Opportunities in Alameda County StopWaste, as well as many of our community and professional partners, offer a range of educational workshops, technical assistance, and community events that can help you build the skills needed to support your composting, gardening, and sustainable landscaping goals. Wayfinding Cards Image Workshop and Event Calendar Upcoming gardening workshops, composting classes, and community events across Alameda County. Image Volunteer with Urban Farms Learn skills and make connections by volunteering with local urban farms producing food for the community. Image Professional Trainings ReScape California courses, WELO training, and professional guides for landscape professionals and public agency staff. Image + Text Image For Direct Guidance from StopWaste Request Compost Technical Assistance StopWaste offers free technical assistance and support to organizations for 1) on-site composting and 2) using compost. Eligible organizations include non-profit and community organizations, agricultural entities, educators, and green spaces. Individual home gardeners are not eligible and are encouraged to attend a workshop from the events calendar below! Learn More Image + Text Image Partnership Opportunity for Local Composters and Urban Farms The StopWaste Environmental Educator Training (SWEET) StopWaste invites local composters and urban farms to learn more about SWEET, a peer-to-peer learning and certification program for composters and educators at urban farms and community organizations! Learn More Additional Resources in Alameda County The Alameda County Resource Conservation District (ACRCD) provides leadership in the county to enhance natural resources conservation, preserve wildlife and habitat, and improve rangeland and agricultural management through partnerships, education, outreach, technical assistance, and funding support. StopWaste collaborates with their following programs: Alameda County Compost for Agriculture Program (ACCAP) Urban Agriculture Technical Assistance and Mini-Grants Carbon Farming Planning The University of California Cooperative Extension's (UCCE) Alameda County Office offers programs that support local agricultural and food systems, environmental stewardship, nutrition and health, youth leadership, and research partnerships. StopWaste collaborates with their following program: Organic Materials Management Program in Agri-Food Systems The Compost Research and Education Foundation (CREF) , affiliated with the US Composting Council (USCC) , is a national organization lifting the composting industry by supporting scientific research, increasing awareness, and educating practitioners and the public to advance composting and other forms of organics recycling. StopWaste provides scholarships for participation in their following program: Compost Operations Training Course (COTC) (regularly offered in California) Receive Updates & Stay Connected Stay updated on sustainability tips, events, and news. Subscribe Footer Main Programs & Services Food Compost & Soil Health Schools Reducing Waste Recycling & Disposal Buildings & Construction Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Rules Food Donation & Recovery Rules Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Youth About Us Who We Are News Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs ©2026 StopWaste / Privacy Policy / Translation Disclaimer Food Donation & Recovery | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home Food Food Donation & Recovery Recovering Surplus Food to Nourish Communities Learn how surplus edible food is recovered and redistributed to people in need across Alameda County, and how you can support local food recovery efforts. Every year, more than 300 million pounds of food and scraps are thrown away in Alameda County — some of which is edible food that could instead nourish community members and help meet California's climate goals. At the same time, 1 in 4 people in Alameda County experience food insecurity, and the demand for food assistance has grown significantly since the pandemic. Food recovery is the practice of collecting surplus edible food from grocery stores, restaurants, schools, hospitals, and other food businesses and redistributing it to people who need it. This keeps good food out of landfills while addressing hunger in our community. In 2024, local food recovery partners together recovered 14 million pounds of edible food — the equivalent of nearly 12 million meals . This represents a steady increase from 12 million pounds recovered in 2023 and reflects the growing capacity and commitment of food recovery organizations across the county. REMINDER : Certain businesses are required by California law to donate surplus edible food. And of course the best way to reduce food waste is to prevent it in the first place. Visit these pages for more information: Reduce Food Waste at Your Business Food Donation Rules How Food Donation and Recovery Works in Alameda County Food banks — The Alameda County Community Food Bank serves as a central hub, coordinating food recovery from 170+ partners and distributing through 70+ pantries and meal sites each week. Food recovery organizations — Currently, over 100 organizations have active food recovery programs serving communities across the county, ranging from small community-based groups to large-scale operators serving culturally specific food needs. Food recovery services — Logistics providers connect donors with food recovery organizations, offering transport, storage, and matching services, including apps that link donations directly to those in need. Community distribution sites — Food pantries, soup kitchens, faith-based organizations, and nonprofits distribute recovered food to people in the community. StopWaste's Role StopWaste helps build and sustain the food recovery system by: Coordinating countywide edible food recovery education, outreach, and SB 1383 compliance monitoring Investing over $2.3 million in grants to nonprofits since 2016 for cold storage, equipment, staffing, and operational costs Convening the Alameda County Food Recovery Network , a coalition of more than 40 organizations that fosters collaboration, shared learning, and efficiency Accordion How You Can Help Local Governments & Agencies Fund food recovery operations and infrastructure. Provide in-kind support and services utilizing city-owned equipment, secure parking, food storage space, community kitchens, and other assets. Integrate food recovery into climate and resilience planning. Advocate for state and federal support for SB 1383 compliance. Foundations & Philanthropic Organizations Provide flexible multi-year unrestricted funding using a trust-based approach to fund staffing and logistics. Invest in cold storage, equipment to facilitate transport of food, such as reusable crates and cooling blankets, and tracking equipment. Support mutual use models where organizations are partnering to share resources and infrastructure. Nonprofits & Food Recovery Groups Join the Alameda County Food Recovery Network to collaborate and advocate together. Explore resource-sharing for transportation, storage, and other logistics. Document and share stories of impact to strengthen the case for funding. Advocate with your donors to consider a fee-for-service model to offset food recovery costs. Register to use platforms like Careit to access new donors and easily maintain donation records. Businesses & Institutions Partner with the ACCFB or local recovery groups to donate surplus food. Use platforms like Careit to make scheduling and maintaining donation documentation easy. Offer in-kind support such as fuel, transportation, or equipment. Ensure that donations are of high quality and have sufficient shelf-life to remain fresh in the hands of a recipient. Coordinate with your food recovery partner to learn what food items are needed and acceptable to donate. Provide staff training to reduce unwanted, spoiled, or inedible food. Get started here. Community Members & Individuals Volunteer with a food recovery group or pantry. Find a food recovery organization here . Check with your employer to see if they have a volunteer match program. Advocate for policies that strengthen food systems, support food recovery and reduce hunger. Encourage food businesses to donate their surplus edible food. Donate to local food banks and nonprofit organizations working on food access. Reduce wasted food at home. Visit StopFoodWaste.org to learn more. Learn More Wayfinding Cards Image Food Recovery Network A coalition of organizations working together to recover and distribute surplus edible food throughout Alameda County. Image Capacity Planning How Alameda County plans, tracks, and ensures adequate capacity for edible food recovery to meet SB 1383 requirements and community needs through 2034. Image Food Donation and Recovery Guides by Industry Tailored food recovery guidance for grocery stores, restaurants, schools, hotels, health facilities, wholesale distributors, venues, and caterers. Image Info for Food Recovery Organizations Food recovery organizations must maintain monthly records of food recovered from commercial generators and submit annual reports. Learn about compliance steps and reporting de Reuse & Repair | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home Reducing Waste Reuse & Repair Reuse and Repair Resources for Alameda County Find repair events, professional repair services, and reuse resources in Alameda County — plus practical tips for extending product life and keeping usable items out of the landfill. Before replacing something, consider whether it can be repaired, donated, or bought used. Reuse and repair keep usable products out of landfills, save money, and reduce the environmental cost of manufacturing new goods. StopWaste offers tools and programs to help Alameda County residents find repair services, attend fix-it events, and connect with local reuse options. Wayfinding Cards Explore Reuse & Repair Resources Image RE:Source Guide Your comprehensive online guide to reuse, repair, and recycling in Alameda County. Search by item to find drop-off locations, repair shops, donation centers, and more. Image Repair Events Calendar Find upcoming repair workshops, fix-it clinics, and community repair events across Alameda County where you can get items fixed and learn hands-on repair skills. Image Reuse and Repair Network A network of Bay Area businesses and nonprofits focused on reuse, repair, and redistribution — connecting members to share resources, form partnerships, and strengthen the repair economy. Tips for Reusing and Repairing Learn to fix things — Attend a repair workshop or fix-it clinic to learn hands-on repair skills for household items Find a repair professional — Many items like furniture, appliances, and electronics can be professionally repaired rather than replaced Borrow and share — Check your local library or hardware store for tool lending opportunities, or find tool libraries in your area Donate, don't discard — Give usable items a second life by donating to local charities or sharing through neighborhood networks — check RE:Source for donation locations Buy used first — Check Craigslist , Nextdoor , Facebook Marketplace , and Freecycle for quality used goods in your neighborhood Support secondhand shops — Shop locally at consignment and thrift stores Choose quality — Invest in durable products that last longer to reduce your environmental footprint Use online repair guides — Sites like iFixit offer free step-by-step instructions for DIY fixes For more ways to reduce your environmental impact at home — including composting, green purchasing, and responsible disposal — see What You Can Do . Receive Updates & Stay Connected Stay updated on sustainability tips, events, and news. Subscribe Footer Main Programs & Services Food Compost & Soil Health Schools Reducing Waste Recycling & Disposal Buildings & Construction Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Rules Food Donation & Recovery Rules Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Youth About Us Who We Are News Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs ©2026 StopWaste / Privacy Policy / Translation Disclaimer Switching to Reusables | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home Reducing Waste Switching To Reusables Switching to Reusables Explore how businesses, schools and communities benefit when they switch from single-use disposable to reusable packaging and foodware, with hands-on support and resources from StopWaste. Single-use packaging and disposables create enormous amounts of waste while draining resources with every replacement. Switching to reusables—whether in restaurants, schools, or supply chains—offers a smarter approach that saves money over time, reduces landfill waste, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. StopWaste provides funding, technical assistance, and resources to help Alameda County businesses and institutions make the transition. From reusable foodware programs for restaurants and schools to transport packaging solutions for manufacturers and distributors, we're here to support your shift away from disposables Wayfinding Cards Image Reusable Foodware Programs and support to help businesses and schools transition to reusable foodware systems. Image Reusable Transport Packaging Make the switch from single-use to reusable transport packaging to cut costs, reduce waste, and improve supply chain efficiency. Numbers Cards The Impact of Switching to Reusables Alameda County businesses, schools, and institutions are seeing real results. 100+ Organizations helped through StopWaste's reusables programs since 2007. 95% Less packaging waste compared to single-use alternatives. $2,000 –$4,000 Annual savings for businesses that switch to reusable foodware. Success Stories Image + Text Image REUSABLE FOODWARE Restaurants & Schools Saving Thousands Every Year Local businesses and schools are cutting costs and eliminating tens of thousands of disposable items annually by switching to reusable cups, plates, and trays. From neighborhood coffee shops saving $3,000 a year to school cafeterias preventing 100,000 single-use items from reaching the landfill, the results speak for themselves. READ SUCCESS STORIES Image + Text Image REUSABLE TRANSPORT PACKAGING Supply Chains Cutting Waste and Boosting Efficiency From Ghirardelli eliminating 70,000 cardboard boxes a year to Full Belly Farm paying back their investment in under 5 months, Alameda County organizations are proving that reusable pallets, wraps, and containers save money, reduce disposal costs, and make operations safer for workers. READ SUCCESS STORIES Receive Updates & Stay Connected Stay updated on sustainability tips, events, and news. Subscribe Footer Main Programs & Services Food Compost & Soil Health Schools Reducing Waste Recycling & Disposal Buildings & Construction Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Rules Food Donation & Recovery Rules Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Youth About Us Who We Are News Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs ©2026 StopWaste / Privacy Policy / Translation Disclaimer Reducing Waste | StopWaste Skip to main content Utility navigation Board Meetings News Search Main navigation StopWaste Toggle Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Translate this page Board Meetings News Search StopWaste Programs & Services Food Reducing Food Waste Food Saving Tips & Recipes Food Donation & Recovery Composting Food Scraps Compost & Soil Health Get Compost & Mulch Make & Use Compost Trainings & Workshops Landscape Management Schools Reducing Food Waste at School Composting & Recycling Curriculum & Activities Programs & Partnerships Reducing Waste Switching to Reusables Reuse & Repair Protecting our Environment Grants & Funding Recycling & Disposal What Goes Where Hazardous Waste Tools & Signage Buildings & Construction Sustainable Materials Saving Energy Rules & Compliance Recycling & Composting Food Donation & Recovery Plastic Bag Laws Citations & Enforcement Get Support Resources For Residents Businesses & Nonprofits Board Members Local Governments Schools & Students About Us Who We Are Board Information Budget & Financials Policy & Leadership Jobs & RFPs Contact Us Breadcrumb Home Reducing Waste Reducing Waste and Building a Circular Economy Programs and resources to help Alameda County residents, businesses, and organizations reduce waste, extend product life, and transition to sustainable alternatives. A thriving circular economy cuts down on waste and reduces dependence on finite natural resources by keeping materials in use for as long as possible. StopWaste supports Alameda County residents, businesses, and organizations with programs for reuse and repair, reusable alternatives, grant funding, and environmental stewardship — practical tools to help reduce waste at every level. Reuse, Repair & Reusables The most effective way to reduce waste is to extend the life of what we already have — and replace disposables with durable alternatives. Wayfinding Cards Image Reuse & Repair Find repair events, professional repair services, and reuse resources in Alameda County — plus practical tips for extending product life and keeping usable items out of the landfill. Image Switching to Reusables Explore how businesses, schools and communities benefit when they switch from single-use disposable to reusable packaging and foodware, with hands-on support and resources from StopWaste. Image + Text Image FUNDING AVAILABLE Grants & Funding StopWaste provides grants for surplus food recovery, reusable transport packaging, and reusable foodware systems to organizations in Alameda County. A revamped grant program launches in fall 2026. VIEW GRANT PROGRAMS Image + Text Image RECOGNITION Environmental Leadership Awards Since