Case Study: Cafe and Shop
“By switching from expensive recyclable and compostable packaging to real dishes, I was able to save money and do the best thing for the environment. And right away customers started commenting on how happy they are with the changes!” Jena Davidson, Co-owner of Sacred Wheel, Oakland.
Additional Resources
Learn more about the ReThink Disposable program by exploring the resources below.
Case Study: Food Truck
“ReThink Disposable has been a huge success for Doc’s of the Bay. The recommendations are working fabulously and we’re seeing benefits well beyond the $2,000 annual savings. The food looks better than it ever has and customer response has been really positive.” Brandon Smuke, Truck Manager of Doc’s of the Bay Food Truck, Emeryville.
Alameda County Green Business Program Case Study: Emerald Packaging
As the second largest employer in Union City and the largest flexible packaging manufacturer on the West Coast, Emerald Packaging proudly embraces responsible leadership. The company has many innovative sustainable initiatives and frequently introduces innovative tools and practices to the industry. In 2006, Emerald Packing created the first compostable plastic package in the produce industry using plant-based, bio-degradable (PLA) film. In 2012, they initiated advances in “field to fork” food product traceability with their packaging.
Reusable Plastic Containers for Produce (Andronico's and FoodMaxx)
StopWaste commissioned this independent field test to determine the feasibility of using reusable plastic containers for shipping and displaying produce in grocery stores. The case study presents lessons learned during the 19-week test conducted at two Andronico's supermarkets and two Food Maxx wholesale grocery outlets. An executive summary of the field test is also available.
Package Labeling & Design
Variation in recycling programs, unclear labeling and false recyclability claims can make proper recycling of packaging materials a challenge for consumers. Inaccurate claims of recyclability may also create a liability for manufacturers as perception of green washing can degrade their brand and negate good intentions.
Reusable Plastic Containers (RPCs) for Shipping and Displaying Produce -- Feasibility Study
StopWaste commissioned this independent field test to determine the feasibility of using reusable plastic containers for shipping and displaying produce in grocery stores. A case study about the field test is also available.
Reusable Packaging Case Study: Tesla Motors & Veritable Vegetable
Tesla Motors, Inc. (Fremont, CA) has replaced cardboard boxes with reusable racks to transport windshields for the Model S sedan. Veritable Vegetable (San Francisco, CA) has switched from disposable plastic stretch wrap to reusable pallet wrap. Each dealing with unique transport packaging challenges, these leading companies show how Reusables have streamlined operations, lowered cost and improved environmental performance.
Peerless Puts StopWaste Assistance to Work
StopWaste teams up with Peerless Coffee to reduce waste and save Peerless over $110,000 a year. StopWaste's free technical assistance and grant funding helped the company implement several waste reduction projects.
