Hosting a zero-waste event is not difficult with a bit of planning. Keep in mind that any event that produces less than 10% landfill waste is a zero-waste event. A zero-waste event is not only good for the planet, it’s also easy on your wallet. Hosting a zero-waste event is likely to cost less than a traditional event.

Think about what you will need: food, beverages, tableware, utensils, decorations, invitations and signs. Then consider where each of those items will likely end up: compost, recycling or trash. From there, you can identify how to eliminate as much landfill waste as possible.

Emerald Keepers encourages all Coronado events to be zero waste. Plan to compost, recycle or reuse. It’s also important to work out a meal plan that produces as little food waste as possible, even if it can be composted.

Ready to get started? These guidelines will help you create a successful, environmentally friendly experience for you and your guests.

PREPARATION

One of the most important steps in hosting a successful zero-waste event is advanced planning with your staff, volunteers, site, vendors, and guests. Inform your guests ahead of time that this will be a zero-waste event so attendees will be prepared.

• Invitations. Replace paper invitations with a digital invite and have guests RSVP online. Include information about zero waste on the invitation.

• Programs. Share your program or agenda digitally. At your event, display QR codes that link to program information.

• Name Tags. Name tags should be non-plastic with lanyards that can be collected for reuse.

• Vendors. If you are planning to use a vendor, ask about their zero-waste experience and abilities. Request reusable plates, utensils, and cloth napkins. If that’s not possible, ask for compostable plates and utensils.

• Volunteers. Train volunteers on zero-waste protocols so they can be stationed around your event to answer questions, advise guests on zero-waste practices, and ensure items are placed in the correct receptacles.

DO’s

Plan to have:

• Receptacles. Provide numerous clearly receptacles for recycling and composting. Offer limited trash receptacles that are small and harder to find so throwing out items is more difficult.

• Signage. Prominently display zero-waste signage. Signs should educate guests about what items should be placed in the recycling and composting receptacles.

• Table settings. Single-use plastic utensils, plates, and cups are the biggest contributor to trash. Use resuable or compostable alternatives.
If you need table coverings, use either cloth, which can be rented, or paper. Butcher paper is inexpensive and becomes a creative catalyst if crayons are added to the table.
Consider getting dishware from thrift stores that can be donated back after the event.
Or look for paper plates without plastic or wax coatings and 100% wood utensils that can be composted. Many plant-based plastic utensils claim they are compostable, but in reality they don’t break down and will end up in the landfill.

• Compost. Ask the vendor if they take the compostable waste. If not, have a plan on getting it into an EDCO green bin.

DONT’S

Avoid:

• Single-serve items. Plan meals with items that don’t come individually wrapped such as chips and granola bars. The packaging cannot be composted or recycled. Use condiments, sugar, and creamers in bulk to cut down on waste.

• Plastic accessories. Ask vendors not to use plastic versions of items such as stir sticks, toothpicks, and straws.

• Single-use decorations. Avoid balloons and disposable decorations and centerpieces. Consider potted plants or flowers from a local farmers market to spruce up the table.

• Glitter. Any paper with glitter or metalic elements cannot be recycled.

• Over ordering. Even though leftover food can go into the compost, it’s better and more economical to avoid a large amount of leftovers. An accurate headcount of attendees will allow you to order the correct amount of food and eliminate the risk of over-ordering.

Contact Emerald Keepers for additional information or suggestions for making your next event zero waste.

Every zero-waste event helps keep Coronado Emerald Green, Ocean Blue.