Choose To Reuse

New Oregon laws make this the right time to switch to reusable serviceware such as dishware, cups and cutlery. Reusables can help your business save money, reduce waste and keep your customers happy. They can be washed and sanitized thousands of times. Check out resources from the new Choose To Reuse campaign. Making the switch is easier than you think!

Business success in food composting

At Mazatlán Mexican Restaurant in Cornelius, sustainability is just as important as seasoning. Read more to learn about how this restaurant focuses on being a Green Business Leader and a prominent part of the community.

Food Donation at Centro Mercado

Centro Mercado, a free food market on Baseline Street in Cornelius, provides culturally appropriate food to community members. Centro Cultural opened the Mercado in May 2025. Marketing and Communications Director Jairo Rodriguez says, “the Mercado prioritizes freedom of choice and cultural relevance. Our community deserves access to food that reflects traditions — from familiar produce and spices to staple ingredients used in daily cooking.”

According to the Oregon DEQ, around 11% of households in the state are food insecure. "Centro Cultural’s Mercado is a cornerstone of nourishment and dignity for Cornelius,” adds Rodriguez. The Mercado helps people access food in a way that acknowledges and honors differences in culture.

Visit the Mercado’s website to learn about food donation and volunteer opportunities. Businesses that donate food can get tax breaks and are protected by the Good Samaritan Law. For more information, check out the Food Waste Stops With Me food donation guide.

Food waste prevention measures pay off

Food waste prevention at Miller’s Homestead in Tigard is a priority for new owner Jeff Grey when serving classic comfort food using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Menu items have been updated by adjusting recipes and portion sizes. The trim from tri-tip is used for chicken-fried steak and in other items like smash burgers and beef soup. Fresh vegetable scraps from kitchen prep are taken to a farm to feed chickens. And food waste from customer plates is separated into a food scrap collection for compost.

As part of a regionwide policy, businesses like Miller’s Homestead are required to separate food scraps from the garbage. These food waste prevention measures decreased food waste and cut the cost of their compost collection services in half. This is a great example of when a business cares for their customers and the environment by reducing food waste, they end up saving money as well.

Contact us if you would like assistance with reducing garbage, recycling more, and starting a compost program. Complete this form and we'll be in touch, or if you have questions, contact us at 503-846-3605 or Recycle@WashingtonCountyOR.gov.

Take our survey!

Do you live or work in Washington County? Help Washington County Solid Waste & Recycling improve garbage and recycling services in the county. 

1. Click the survey link.
2. Take the 15-minute survey by November 1. This survey is anonymous.
3. Enter to win a $50 gift card.

4th Annual Westside Small Business and Workforce Open House!

Attend this free event where small businesses connect with other businesses, local government, resource organizations, and community groups—while accessing valuable educational resources.



• Date: Wednesday November 5, 2025
• Time: 10 AM – 1 PM
• Location: PCC Willow Creek Center 241 SW Edgeway Drive, Beaverton OR 97006
• RSVP here or use this QR code.