Join the movement

Join a global movement to cut single‑use plastics with practical, everyday swaps. Sign up and get resources for homes, schools, and businesses.

Sign up for Plastic Free July

Powered by Plastic Free Foundation.

Overview

These requirements help protect local rivers and reduce waste from food service and retail.

• Bag Fee (Skip the Bag, Save the River) – 5¢ fee on single‑use carryout paper/plastic bags at food and alcohol retailers. Learn more
• Foam Free DC – Ban on expanded polystyrene (foam) food service ware. Learn more
• Compostable/Recyclable Food Service Ware – Restaurants and food‑serving entities must use approved recyclable/compostable ware. Learn more
• Plastic Straw Ban– Single‑use plastic straws and stirrers prohibited, with ADA accommodations allowed. Learn more · Our Last Straw coalition
• Utensils by Request – Disposable items may be provided only upon request. Learn more

Take action in your neighborhood

Ready to cut down single‑use plastics where you live, work, or play? Explore tools and tips that make it easy to lead your own cleanup, support local efforts, and inspire others to get involved.

Track the difference you’re making with the DOEE Litter Data Card and watch your impact add up.

Skip unnecessary packaging

Buy products in bulk, choose items with minimal packaging, or select package‑free options when possible.

Say no to extras

Decline single‑use items you don’t need, such as condiment packets, utensils, cup sleeves, and straws, especially when ordering takeout or delivery. If you recieve utensils without requesting them, you can submit a tip here.

Bring your own utensils and napkins

Keep a small “reusable kit” with a fork, spoon, straw, and cloth napkin for meals on the go.

Choose refillable products

Pick refillable soap, detergent, cleaning sprays, and other household items. Many refilleries and stores allow you to bring your own container.

Buy durable, long‑lasting products

Choose items that can be repaired, reused, or refilled instead of disposable versions.

Select concentrated or multi‑use items

Concentrated cleaners, shampoo bars, and multi‑purpose products reduce the amount of plastic packaging required.

Support businesses that reduce plastic

Shop at stores, cafés, and restaurants that offer reusable options, accept bring‑your‑own containers, or participate in reuse programs.

Plan ahead to avoid impulse disposables

Keeping a reusable bag or bottle in your backpack, purse, or car makes it easier to skip single‑use items.