Seattle Communities Lead the Way: Five Local Projects Receive 2026 ReThink Waste Grants

Annual grants support circular economy projects that give materials a second life

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) and WM have announced the recipients of the 2026 ReThink Waste Grants, recognizing five local organizations that are turning waste reduction ideas into real, community-driven action. Now in its eighth year, the program is investing $10,000 in projects that prevent waste, promote recycling and composting, and strengthen Seattle’s circular economy.

Each awardee brings a unique approach to keeping valuable materials in circulation—whether through repair, reuse, creative skill‑building, or youth engagement. Their work demonstrates how small, targeted investments can create long-lasting community impact.

2026 Grant Recipients

• ReLove Lab
  ReLove Lab is working with schools and youth communities in Phinney Ridge/Wallingford, Northgate/Greenwood, and South Seattle to reduce textile waste. Their community closets provide places for students and young adults to exchange clothing, learn about sustainable fashion choices, and reduce reliance on fast fashion, one of the highest sources of textile consumption. Award: $1,100
• Furniture Repair Bank (SODO)
  Furniture Repair Bank focuses on diverting usable furniture away from the landfill and into the hands of households transitioning to stable housing. Through hands‑on volunteer training, community members learn repair techniques while restoring donated items. Every repaired piece supports both waste reduction and neighbors who need essential furnishings. Award: $3,980
• Ballard Tool Library
  The Ballard Tool Library helps residents keep tools in service for longer by offering education in tool repair and maintenance. By expanding access to fix‑it resources, the organization supports reuse practices and empowers community members to strengthen their own repair skills—keeping tools out of the waste stream and in regular use. Award: $1,250
• Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association
  DNDA is strengthening creative reuse through its recurring ArtPlus bookmaking classes. Participants learn techniques for transforming reusable materials into artistic and functional items. The program helps divert materials from disposal and builds community around hands‑on sustainability learning. Award: $1,835
• Switchback Repair
  Switchback Repair collaborates with Seattle’s outdoor community and gear-related organizations to promote repair, reuse, and material recovery. Their expanded partnerships help outdoor enthusiasts keep gear in circulation longer and reduce the disposal of textiles and plastics that come from outdoor equipment manufacturing. Award: $1,835

Community Impact Through Local Partnerships

The ReThink Waste Grants continue to highlight how community collaboration drives progress toward a zero-waste future. By funding repair programs, youth-centered textile reuse, creative arts-based recycling, and sustainable outdoor gear practices, SPU and WM support practical, neighborhood-level solutions that make Seattle a national leader in sustainability and resource recovery.

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