How to Host a Zero Waste Event

A zero-waste event is designed to minimize waste by diverting at least 90% of materials from landfills through recycling and composting efforts. The goal is to reduce the environmental impact of gatherings by ensuring that waste is properly sorted and disposed of responsibly.

The Greater Laingsburg Recyclers are here to support the logistics of your zero-waste event, ensuring a smooth and successful experience for everyone involved. Feel free to reach out for assistance at any stage! Ask us about our Zero Waste Event kits.

Key Strategies for a Zero Waste Event

1. Set a Goal
   Aim for at least 90% of waste to be composted or recycled.

2. Consider Reusable Options

   • Use real dishes, cups, utensils, and table coverings whenever possible. Avoid items that are single use plastic.

   • If disposable tableware is necessary, ensure it is BPI-certified compostable. They can be purchased through My Green Michigan (see contact info below), Meijer, Costco or Amazon.

   • If take-out containers are necessary for your event avoid Styrofoam-choose aluminum which can be recycled or BPI certified products.

   • If using decorations-make your own or re-use what you have.

3. Purchase Sustainable Items

   • Buy products packaged in recyclable boxes and containers.

   • Choose items with minimal or compostable packaging.

   • Avoid purchasing single use packaged products: butter, sugar, creamer, straws.

4. Educate Your Team (GLR would be happy to assist in a training)

   • Encourage kitchen staff to begin composting during food prep prior to the event.

   • Train kitchen staff and event volunteers on proper waste sorting. Use attached recycling and compost guides.

   • Inform attendees about how to dispose of their waste correctly.

5. Provide Clearly Labeled Waste Bins

   • Set up separate bins for Compost, Recycle, and Trash (Landfill). See attached printable signs. Bags for compost should be BPI certified in order to be composted.

   • Clearly label each bin to avoid contamination. Trash should be minimal-consider a small bin for collection.

   • It is helpful to have a volunteer oversee the bins during the event.

6. Compost All Organic Waste

   • Collect food scraps, napkins, and compostable tableware in designated compost bins.

7. Composting Logistics

   • Large Events: Contact My Green Michigan to secure a compost bin for your location.

   • Small Events: Drop off compost at a Greater Laingsburg Recyclers (GLR) recycling drive or at Hammond Farms (for a small fee). If compost is bagged it must be in BPI certified compost bags or brown paper bags.

8. Spread the Word

• Be sure to weigh your composted materials at the end of your event so you can share your success and “Pounds of waste diverted from the landfill”!  GLR has a hand scale you can borrow for your event!

• Share your zero waste efforts on social media, the local press and with GLR (We would love to hear about your event)!

By following these steps, you can ensure that your event is environmentally friendly and contributes to a sustainable future.

Contacts for your event:

Greater Laingsburg Recyclers: Email: RecycleLaingsburg@gmail.com

Website: https://recyclelaingsburg.wixsite.com/mysite Phone: Linda Applebee 517-819-0125

My Green Michigan: Email: office@mygreenmi.com Website: mygreenmi.com

Phone: 877-304-5810