Waste and Recycling at Events and Venues

There are 5 main components to a successful and effective waste management strategy at your event or venue:

1. Avoid waste by reducing the number of unnecessary items brought to the event and the amount of waste created during the event

As well as reducing the potential for littering and contamination of recycling systems, this cuts the cost of waste management

2. Incorporate an organic recycling stream

Require vendors to only use reusable or compostable service ware, contract specialist providers to take material to a commercial composting facility and, where practical, partner with food rescue organisations to collect quality surplus food.

3. Have a comprehensive waste bin system for the public and vendors

Ensure you have co-located bin stations in the right places and that event staff or volunteers regularly monitor bin stations to assist with correct disposal of waste. Service providers can help with planning.

4. Use clear and effective signage

A good bin system is ineffective if it’s not clear what goes where. People who want to do the right thing need to know how.

5. Collect and evaluate waste and recycling data

Understanding what did and didn’t work can help in developing better and more cost-effective strategies for future events.

Download our guide for practical advice, tools, examples and tips on how to reduce your event or venue's carbon footprint and reduce waste to save costs.