Ditch the Disposables: Awards to Reduce Waste

The Chesapeake Bay Trust, the District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment, and the Office of the State Superintendent of Education are excited to announce the District of Columbia Ditch the Disposables Award Program. The goals of this Request for Applications (RFA) are to fund projects in the District of Columbia in reducing food packaging. Disposable foodware and single-use food service items are a consistent source of waste in the District of Columbia. Even when made from recyclable or compostable materials, most items end up landfilled, incinerated, or in local and regional waterways where they are a major source of pollution and eventually break down into harmful microplastics. A transition to reusables carries numerous benefits. There are many examples and case studies from across the country of costs savings for businesses after implementing such a transition, even after accounting for any labor, water, and electricity costs associated with reusable foodware.

What this funds: Dishes and dishwashing for on-site dining, third-party reusable foodware service, and reusable foodware for take-out. Food serving entities that already use reusable foodware for on-site dining are not eligible for the Dishes and Dishwashing project area. See the RFA for more information on eligible project types.

• Dishes and dishwashing for on-site dining
• Third-party reusable foodware program
• Reusable foodware for takeout, handled in house

Who can apply: The funding partners welcome requests from nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations, government agencies, universities/educational institutions, or private enterprises located within the District. See the RFA for full list of eligible applicants.

How much can be awarded: Multiple tracks may be combined in one project, but the limit for all tracks, one or combined, is $25,000.

Is match required? In-kind and Cash match is not required but can be included, if necessary, to accomplish project goals.

Grant Application Process: The Chesapeake Bay Trust’s grant applications are all submitted through an online system, using the “New Grant” button to the right.

Grant Application Budget Forms: Applicants are required to submit a budget using the Financial Management Spreadsheet found here.

Variance Application Instructions for Reusable Takeout Containers (DC Health)

Commercial Dishwasher Permit Instructions for DCRA

Narrative Questions Template

Q&A Document

Program Flyer

For more resources, including information on reusables, please see the Resources for Applicants page.