Zero Waste Events at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ

Looking to be environmentally friendly at your next ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ on campus event? Here is how to be Zero Waste at any event!

Steps to be Zero Waste at your ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ event

Contact the CU Environmental Center Zero Waste Event Team

  • .
  • If you have specific questions, contact the zero waste event team.
  • Please fill out the form and/or contact us AT LEAST 2 WEEKS in advance of your event.
  • We only support events on the ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ campus or through ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ departments.

Reduce your event waste

  • Start by using reusable food service products.
  • Look toÌýeliminate single-useÌýitems and packaging.
  • Choose your vendors wisely and brainstorm how they can reduce waste.
  • Serve in bulk. Many beverages, condiments, etc. can be purchased in larger sizes.

Use items that can be recycled or composted

If you have to use disposable/single-use foodÌýservice items:

  • Make sure they are recyclableÌýor compostable.
  • If possible,Ìýuse ALL compostable serviceÌýitems for food and bulk beverages.
  • Verify items are compostable or recyclable in your areaÌýbefore purchasing for your event.
  • Apply the same concepts to your promotional materials and giveaways.

Create a waste collection plan

  • The Environmental Center staff can best assist with a waste collection plan for your event.
  • Paired bins optimize accuracy in disposal. Provide options to recycle/compost/landfillÌýat each station.
  • MaintainÌýseparation of "public" bins and "back of house" bins, as the waste streams are often different.

Inform your staff and guests

  • The Environmental Center staff can provide training to your event staff and vendors.
  • For large events, "Waste Goalies" can be placed at each station to engage guests.
  • Consider marketing your event as "Sustainable orÌýZero Waste". This way guests will knowÌýwhat to expect and will recognize your sustainability efforts. Utilize marketing materials to relay these efforts and otherÌýsustainableÌýsuggestions, encouraging guests toÌýbring their own water bottle or ride public transportation toÌýreduce their footprint at your event.

Other resources

  • The City of Boulder also recommends .
  • for Zero Waste at your event.

Costs for Zero Waste Services

Hourly rates are based on number of professional staff and student staff working the event.

  • to get a quote for your ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ event.

Minimum time for any event is 2 hours (1 hour set up + 1 hour break down)

  • Actual time is based on size of event and scope of waste collections.

Additional collection costs may be necessary for larger events.

  • Contamination fee may be charged if additional waste sorting is required at end of event.
  • Please make sure your staff and volunteers are trained about your Zero Waste efforts.