Sparkl designs and deploys reusable systems for corporations, grocery stores, restaurants, municipalities and community organizations. They tailor each reusables system to the needs of each customer and they provide sustainability metrics and monitoring, staff training and dishwashing.
Sparkl Reusables is a leader in the implementation of reuse and zero waste systems in the San Francisco Bay Area. They have designed and deployed reusables systems for zero waste events, cafeterias, grocery stores and food vendors.
Sparkl has several different systems options based on the needs of their partners. They offer a deposit system for check out and return of reusable items, a locking dispenser for staff-free use, and signage and education for events.
Sparkl offers to-go containers for food and drinks. All containers are made from BPA and BPS free durable #5 polypropylene. Beverage containers have lids/tops that can accommodate a straw, stack well, and work for both hot and cold drinks.
Sparkl is responsible for the full life cycle of their containers. After 300+ uses containers are bundled into Preserve’s Gimme 5 Program and turned into plates, bowls and forks, which are then utilized by Sparkl for events.
Sparkl has designed and used several different reusables systems. These include both a deposit system for check out with a refund upon return – Sparkl uses integrated card readers with vendor P.O.S. and they are working to integrate back end systems with existing company ID cards and other apps already in use by employees – and a yearly subscription model. The subscription is $35 and subscribers can check out two containers at a time from a locking dispenser using a provided code.
Sparkl offers both on-site and off-site options for dishwashing. For accounts with off-site washing, Sparkl works with community-based nonprofits, such as soup kitchens and workforce development organizations, to conduct pick up, drop off and washing operations. Pick-up and drop off by electric vehicle, bicycle or foot, is performed weekly, but additional pick-ups/drop-offs can be scheduled. The same vehicle is used for dirty and clean containers, but safe food handling is ensured using liner bags for dirty containers and sealed bags for clean containers. The process has been approved by county health departments.
If on-site dishwashing is available, Sparkl will facilitate meetings with all stakeholders to create buy-in, conduct trainings with kitchen staff, and provide a method for inventory monitoring and metrics reporting. Depending on the agreement, they may also offer compensation for additional time for dishwashing staff.
Depending on location/program, staff training ranges from check-lists for launching new sites, talking points for engaging with customers, and technology training for tracking reusables. Sparkl also trains dishwashing staff and delivery personnel.
Sparkl provides ongoing sustainability metrics and monitoring.
6-8% per event or year for ongoing programs.
Sparkl has several pilots and areas of implementation.
Paul was inspired to take action and bring reusables to the Bay Area after years of feeling uncomfortable with waste generated from otherwise delicious take-out meals.
Paul’s background includes leadership roles in urban gardening, the organic food industry, and the green energy sector. Paul holds an MBA in Sustainable Management from the Presidio School of Management and is owner of Small Village Enterprises which imports delicious olive oil from his family’s grove in the Island of Crete, Greece.
Ericka is a graduate from SFSU where she studied Geography and Environmental Studies. While interning for author and blogger Beth Terry of My Plastic Free Life, she learned of ways to cut out single-use plastics and helped others limit the amount they use in their lives and live a more sustainable life.
Before joining Sparkl Reusables, Ericka worked for carpooling startup Scoop Technologies where she took on all things operations as well as created and implemented Scoop’s corporate social responsibility program.
Ericka’s main focus at Sparkl Reusables will be building relationships with partners to help ensure the success of their waste reduction efforts.
Laura brings 25 years of experience in the health, sustainability and wellness areas with deep expertise in scaling startups. CEO of Essentiel’ Elements and Care Diagnostics. Senior Technology Investment Banking Analyst for 10 years. UC Berkeley MBA extension program. Laura is passionate about using her knowledge and expertise to create a more sustainable world.
Vanessa’s background is in business development, sales operations, and marketing from her years of working in the service, global education and tech industries. She has deep experience in implementing circular systems at organizations ranging from mom-and-pop food trucks to fortune-500 corporate cafeterias. She specializes in communications and is passionate about making waves in the environmental industry.
Our Reuse Ambassadors are high school students from around the Bay Area. They assist SPARKL with environmental outreach activities at companies and events around the Bay Area. The students receive training, mentoring and education in real world business environments where they can make a difference.
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