Guide to Recycling at Special Events:

Special events provide a great opportunity to recycle.
Efforts are appreciated by both your guests and staff.

Once you learn the basics,
you’ll see how EASY it is to recycle at your event!



RECYCLING GUIDELINES

PLAN AHEAD - Include recycling from the start of the event planning process.
  1. Check with the facility to verify existing trash and recycling services.  If these services will not meet your needs, contact your recycling/garbage service provider for assistance in selecting appropriate recycling and trash containers for your event.
  2. If the facility cannot accommodate the additional materials generated at your event, order extra service at least several weeks in advance.
  3. Advanced notification to vendors and/or caterers is important. A message with instructions about recycling at the event should be included in your written event communications.
  4. Think about where the recycling containers will be located and who will be using them (public or staff). There is a variety of equipment available: including carts, bins, and large boxes.
    Determine who will be emptying the recycling and trash containers at the event – be sure to communicate with them so you can address any concerns in the planning stages and not on the day of the event.


EVENT SETUP
  • Always place recycling containers alongside trash containers - neither should EVER be alone, since a lone recycling container will just fill up with trash, and visa versa! Lidded containers with restricted openings work best for recycling since this discourages trash.
  • Recycling and trash containers should be different colors (blue for recycling).  If bags are used, try to use clear for recycling and black for trash for easy identification.  Never use dark bags for recyclables.
  • Proper signage on all containers is Key . It should be clear what items can be recycled - use graphics and provide bilingual information whenever possible.   
  • Reminders (signs placed around the venue, live stage announcements, flags, messages in event programs) help reinforce the recycling message.
  • Make sure ample recycling containers are placed near high volume areas: bars, kitchens, food bussing areas, food stalls, etc.
  • Work with the cleanup staff – let them know about the program and listen to suggestions.
  • Make sure trash cans are emptied regularly and don’t overflow – this can cause guests and staff to start using the available recycling containers for trash.

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REASONS TO RECYCLE
  1. Special events typically produce a lot of waste…which can lead to unexpectedly huge garbage bills.  Recycling can save you money - there is always a charge for trash collection, while recycling service is provided free of charge or at a discounted rate.
  2. State and County policies require recycling at large events.
  3. Your guests notice and appreciate it – recycling is good Public Relations!
  4. By recycling, you save valuable resources, conserve energy and reduce pollution.
  5. Increasingly, corporations and agencies give preference to “green practices” when shopping for event locations and service providers.  

RESOURCES
www.bottlesandcans.com:  free information and supplies from the California Dept. of Conservation
Purchase your own recycling containers:  Office supply stores carry a wide selection, or check www.crra.com/vserc/vendors.html for a list of container vendors.
Buy recycled products: check the directory in here.
Sustainable special event products:  www.greenhome.com, www.greenearthofficesupply.com, www.excellentpackaging.com


Biodegrable cups – look and perform just like plastic.