Community Events
Community and special events are a terrific way to gather people. One
downside is that they generate a lot of trash. Many events provide
recycling containers, in the form of cardboard boxes, plastic collection
containers, and rolling carts. However, contamination rates are very
high.
If obstacles to recycling can be overcome, benefits can accrue to both
communities and event organizers. These include contributing towards
state-mandated goal to reach 50 percent waste diversion (AB 939). The
practice of recycling generates good publicity for event organizers, and
it reduces waste disposal costs. It also generates goodwill among
attendees - the public likes recycling at events. People often express a
desire for recycling opportunities when they are not present at
community events.
Many cities have waste reduction activities included as part of the
permit to host the event. Check with your city for assistance.
Some examples of waste reduction and recycling activities are:
- Order recycling and trash containers from your hauler and
confirm the schedule of arrival.
- Find a volunteer or group to be responsible for the recycling
operations on the day of the event.
- Post large, central, easy-to-read display boards of signs
instead of distributing programs.
- Hang a sign at concession stands informing people where they can
recycle.
- Ask concessionaires to minimize packaging. For example, offer
condiments in bulk instead of single serving packets; only hand out one
napkin per customer.
- Divide leftover food among volunteers or donate food.
- Provide beverages in recyclable containers instead of single-use
cups.
- Clearly identify recycling bins.
- Choose reusable or recycled products over disposable ones. For
example, instead of paper tablecloths, rent vinyl or cloth ones;
consider gift certificates, passes or plants instead of gimmicky items.
- Ensure recycling containers are collected in a timely manner
following your event.
For more information, see RecycleWorks, a program of the County of San
Mateo, at www.recycleworks.org/business/event_planning.html.
Contact Allied Waste to discuss your event recycling and garbage
needs at (650) 592-2411.
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