DC press release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 9th, 2022
CONTACT: Nicole Goines, PIO, (202) 536-7666 cell, nicole.goines1@dc.gov
DOEE LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE, REUSE DC, TO HELP RESIDENTS MEET DISTRICT’S WASTE DIVERSION GOALS
WASHINGTON, DC- The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) announces the launch of Reuse DC, a first-of-its-kind website to help District residents get centralized information on how to repair, donate, and shop second-hand items ranging from furniture, clothing and other household items.
Through the website, the public can search an online map-based directory, explore how to exchange items with neighbors, learn about the importance of food recovery, find an upcoming Fix-It event, discover grant programs, and more.
“The launch of this website illustrates the District’s commitment to achieving zero waste through source reduction and reuse, which are preferred over other forms of waste diversion such as recycling and composting,” said DOEE Director Tommy Wells. “Beyond waste diversion, DOEE recognizes previously owned household items are still valuable and can service our community and create green economic opportunities in the District through the local circular economy.”
Reuse DC celebrates the partnerships between government, businesses, non-profits, and other stakeholders vital to the District’s commitment to expanding local donation and reuse resources. In addition to the website, DOEE’s newly created Reuse DC team provides funding to organizations innovating and expanding District resources through the Donation and Reuse Award Program, established in 2022 in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Trust. The program funded donation and reuse project, services, outreach, and education. In 2022, eight entities were selected, with awards totaling $64,000:
A Wider Circle
Common Good City Farm
Community Forklift
Frontline Gig, Inc
ShopReuse LLC
The Fresh Food Factory Market
The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command
Three Part Harmony Farm
The application for the 2023 Donation and Reuse Award Program is currently open through December 8, 2022. For more information, please see reuse.dc.gov/page/programs.
DOEE’s Reuse DC team seeks feedback from the community about their donation and reuse habits and challenges to ensure the future of the program services District residents in a meaningful and lasting way. Help shape the future of Reuse DC by completing the brief Donation and Reuse survey at bit.ly/reusesurvey.
