From refill shops to future grant funding, the City’s Zero Waste Program is turning sustainability into everyday action—and you can be part of it
In Alameda, we cherish our small-town charm and community spirit—and even more because of what unites us: our dedication to sustainability. The City of Alameda’s Zero Waste Program isn’t just about recycling—it’s a roadmap to a cleaner, healthier, more resilient Alameda.
[1]Launched with the Zero Waste Implementation Plan (ZWIP) [3], the city’s initiative sets ambitious goals in waste reduction, recycling, and composting. Alameda already diverts about 81% of its waste—one of the best rates in California—yet there’s still more to do. From coffee cups to compost bins, every small layer counts.
For businesses, this means more than just following state mandates like SB 1383—it means leading by example. In partnership with Alameda County Industries (ACI), Alameda offers free technical assistance to help businesses set up proper waste sorting and train staff. ACI even offers free onsite waste assessments—just get in touch.
One standout resource is the Zero Waste Business Directory [4]—an easy way for residents to find local companies committed to sustainable practices. Among its West Alameda listings: Replenish Marketplace, a bring-your-own-container refill shop, and Okapi Reusables, offering reusable goods.
[5]A local success story: Replenish Marketplace
At 1503 Webster Street, Replenish Marketplace [6] invites customers to *“grab your jars, bottles, cans, jugs, pumps”—*anything clean and reusable—to refill essentials across the home and personal care spectrum. Since opening earlier this year, they’ve welcomed over 500 customers, dramatically reducing packaging waste. As one excited local shared: “I’m so excited to have a zero waste store on the island. Bring your own containers and refill…”
This isn’t just shopping—it’s a powerful example of how Alameda can turn zero-waste ideals into everyday action.
Hitting pause on 2025 funding—but 2026 is coming
In 2025, the nonprofit StopWaste awarded equipment grants to help nonprofits and organizations with reusable systems, food recovery, and packaging alternatives—but this grant round is now closed. The good news for Alameda businesses, schools, and nonprofits is they can get ready for the next cycle by emailing [email protected] [7] to join the 2026 funding announcement list.
If your business is composting, recycling, minimizing waste, or otherwise rethinking reuse—get listed in the directory and prepare for future grants. You’ll gain free exposure to eco-conscious customers and a key role in driving change.
Zero waste isn’t a distant promise—it’s a daily practice. Let’s build it block by block, bin by bin, and ensure Alameda stays green for generations. Learn more, reach out, get listed, and let’s lead together.
Elissa Glickman is the Executive Director of the West Alameda Business Association (WABA). She works to keep the West End thriving through business advocacy, creative marketing, and community partnerships that make Alameda a great place to live, work, and visit. For more information regarding WABA, please email her at [email protected] [8].
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