Action: Tell Starbucks: Build a Better (Reusable) Cup Program

In January 2024, Starbucks announced its acceptance of reusable cups for to-go and mobile orders along with the goal to reduce 50% of their waste by 2030. They are already falling short on this promise and have not backed their "reusable" cup option at the forefront of their marketing. The Plastic Pollution Coalition is gathering signatures to show Starbucks that they need to have better incentives and promotion in their reusable cup program.

Sign Here

Donate: COLE's Annual Winter Coat Drive

The Coalition on Lead Emergency is holding a winter coat drive now through November 16th. They are looking for new and gently used winter coats and accessories such as hats, gloves, and scarves. You can drop off the items at The Dominican Center -2470 W Locust St. - between 10-5 pm Monday through Friday. They ask that everyone call ahead before dropping off the clothing at (262) 420 3799. 

COLE's Website

Learn: Waste-Free Future Summit

Just Zero is holding its first Waste-Free Summit online November 13-15th with 5 free sessions on various waste reduction topics. You will learn strategies and tools from all over the country on how to advocate, communicate, and campaign for zero waste! This is a great opportunity and introduction to waste reduction and it will be recorded for everyone's convenience. As long as you sign up, you'll receive access to all the resources and recordings.

Sign-up Here

Los Angeles County sues Pepsi and Coca-Cola over plastic bottles

"In a lawsuit filed Wednesday, the county alleged PepsiCo and Coca-Cola companies have misled the public about the recyclability of their plastic bottles and downplayed the negative environmental and health impacts of plastic disposal."

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Stop Drinking Bottled Water: Experts Warn of Health and Climate Impacts

"Harmful chemicals from plastic bottles, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, can leach into the water, the researchers said, especially when bottles are exposed to sunlight or high temperatures for extended periods. Studies have found contaminants, including microplastics, in up to 78 percent of bottled-water samples."

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From schools to stadiums: Tips for zero waste at large venues

"'This is really more than an industry problem. In my opinion, this is a behavior change problem,' Wald said. 'That’s why I believe the tourism and hospitality industry are so uniquely positioned to help solve some of these incredible challenges of our time.'"

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Startups replace plastics with mushrooms in the seafood industry

"Reiske says the compostable coolers are an important step in curbing plastic pollution. “For shipping fish, there [aren’t many] options on the market. The choice is Styrofoam. The mycelium coolers allow us to have an option for people who want to ship seafood in a box that is not harmful to the environment,” he says."

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Tricklebee Café

Tricklebee Café is a pay-what-you-can community café that offers healthy meals, food-service training, and spiritual nourishment. Located in our Lake Friendly Neighborhood, Sherman Park, Tricklebee Café offers plant-based soups, sandwiches, salads, baked goods, and hot drinks. Tricklebee Café officially became a Lake Friendly Business in 2019 and has rooted itself in sustainability with backyard gardens and robust composting. The café only generates one tall garbage bag of waste per week! They are piloting a small-scale reusable container program for their most loyal customers to avoid disposable to-go packaging! Learn more about Tricklebee Café, discover their ever-changing menu, and explore ways to volunteer and support their business at tricklebeecafe.org.