Welcome to Zero Waste PDX!
The idea for this guide sparked as I was pinning more and more places on Google Maps and as more and more people started asking me recommendations for places to shop in bulk.
Designing a whole new website takes time (especially when your personal designer tells you to do it yourself), so instead of keeping all this data to myself while waiting for the launch of a dedicated space for it, I thought I would start sharing my progress here on the blog.
To become a Zero Waste Expert in one of the world's most environmentally conscious cities, there are 5 things that you can do.
1. Bookmark the Zero Waste PDX Resource Map
Above is a map of a businesses, organizations and markets around Portland that support our zero waste lifestyle.
I've created various layers so that the map is not overcrowded.
You can show them by clicking on the arrow on the top left of the map and selecting the ones you're interested to see.
Then click on each of the locations to have more information about which products they sell in bulk, which items they accept for donation or what can be recycled there.
- Buy in Bulk: farmers markets, coops, supermarkets with a bulk aisle
- Eat Responsibly: restaurants with a mission (reduce food waste, local producers, organic products)
- BYOC (bring your own cup): bars, cafés and juice bar who encourage consumers to bring their own containers
- Homestead: Supply stores for arts and crafts (canning, candle making, homemade cosmetics creation)
- Recycle/Compost/Dispose Responsibly: collection centers
- Shop Vintage/Second Hand
- Shop New/Salvaged
- Share: libraries, tool libraries, toy libraries
- Improve your Home: with used or salvaged supplies
- Learn/DIY: places where you can learn how to make your own products instead or buying them!
The map is also available in full page.
Portland is not a big city, but its zero waste resources seem to be infinite. I update the map as often as possible but have probably missed certain spots. Please send me an e-mail if there is a spot that you would recommend, especially if you have more details about what kind of recyclables your neighborhood market or coop accepts (i.e. corks at New Seasons, batteries at Ikea, etc)!
Another great resource for donations is the Portland Metro Find a Recycler Tool. Check it out!
2. Sign up for the Zero Waste PDX Mailing List
Published only a couple times a year, the newsletter will keep you updated on major news about Zero Waste in Portland, events that you shouldn't miss, and places that you have to visit.
Sign up now and be notified of major zero waste happenings!
3. Join the Zero Waste PDX Community on Facebook
In this group, members publish relevant news and tips about zero waste in the Portland Metro Area. I also repost important events such as Repair Cafés, food swaps, workshops, leaf days, neighborhood collection events, etc.
Join us now and become a local zero waste expert!
4. Download the Zero Waster’s Travel Companion
This e-book features packaging free shops, bulk shops, composting solutions and tourist attractions from 32 countries around the world.
I wrote the chapter dedicated to Portland, it's a really great resource, don't miss it!
5. Check out my favorite places in the Conscious Guide I wrote for Selva Beat Magazine
It features my favorite bubble tea bar, vintage shop and city hike!
6. Take a Zero Waste Home Tour!
The best way to learn all the zero waste tips you can apply at home is to see them in action.
Book a tour now and learn all the secrets from a local Zero Waster!
I regularly organize meet-ups for local Zero Wasters. In the meantime, if you have comments or questions, don't hesitate to write them here, and I'll answer them if I can or orient you to the best resources I'll find.