Waste

Though waste is usually dealt with last, don't let it be an afterthought! There are many proactive things you can do to reduce waste at your event.

• Source Reduction: Reducing waste at the source is a powerful way to cut down your overall disposal costs. You can reduce meal waste by using renewable products wherever possible: plates, cutlery, glassware, tablecloths, and napkins. These items have the added benefit of the elegance they impart. Serving beer on draft and soft drinks through a soda machine reduces the number of individual serving size beverage containers you have at the end of the event.
• Buying in Bulk: Most restaurants and caterers you work with will already be buying things in bulk. If you find yourself using the same or similar materials or ingredients at many events, consider buying in bulk to save money and packaging.
• Donations: After the event is over, if you have any food or non-perishable items left over, consider donating to an area food bank, school, charity, or some other organization who can use the items that you have no use for. Your donation is often tax deductible and it can prolong the trip to the landfill. You may be able to arrange for pick up at the end of the event.
• Compost: Food and disposable waste collection can be an easy way to reduce your trash, if the circumstances are right. In St. Louis, there is currently only one facility certified to take food scraps. Replenishing the Earth and St. Louis Earth Day work together to offer events composting services. Composting requires collection bins and clear signage. If busing dishes, it is essential to train staff and have signage in the dish station. There are plastics made from corn-based compounds that can be added to the compost. Paper napkins are biodegradeable and can go directly into the compost (non-bleach paper is preferred). Collect compost in biodegradeable bags. 
• Recycling: Any green event should have recycling. Recycling containers are very visible and recognizable as a way to communicate to the public that your event is environmentally conscious. Single stream, if available, is the easiest way to collect large amounts of recycling. Clear signage that outlines which materials are accepted is critical to recycling success. Work with event staff to collect recycling and trash separately. Clearly mark the dumpsters.

            Click HERE for information on Recycling On the Go event recycling services.

            Click HERE for information on Community Self Service (Do It Yourself) Recycling Bin Loan Program.

Cost Savings Opportunities: Recycling materials is often less expensive than dumpster fees. You can work with your waste hauler to have two smaller dumpsters rather than one large one to accommodate recycling, often at no additional cost. Having recycling collection bins and the labor force to monitor them may be a cost sink that can be subsidized by other savings or paid for by a specific sponsor.

Green Lens Questions: How can I reduce before I recycle? What are the best methods for capturing the most pure compost and recycling? Are there any layout restrictions that will inhibit recycling? What area organizations could benefit from our leftover food and products? How much volunteer labor can we count on?

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Recycling On the Go is made possible in part by generous grants from: