Central Oregon is filled with fun events every weekend, but let’s face it, all those events create a lot of waste. Event organizers can reduce a lot of waste from the get-go with some extra planning and forethought, and we’re here to help you.
Ready for a Zero Waste Event? Here’s what you need to know.
- Ask attendees to bring their own reusable containers, cups, and utensils.
- Consider borrowing or renting plates, cups, utensils, etc. The Environmental Center currently rents out reusable dishware kits for FREE – check it out!
- Bend Party Rentals is another great place to check out reusable dishware.
- Cascade Disposal and Republic Services both have commercial composting options. Reach out to them for more information!
- If it’s a small event, consider your personal yard debris bin, which now accepts all wasted food.
NOTE ON COMPOSTABLE FOODWARE: Household yard debris bins do NOT accept compostables. Check with your garbage service provider for more information about commercial composting service regarding compostable food ware.
The topic of compostable cups, plates, and utensils is complicated. While it sounds like a great idea, the truth is that through lifecycle analysis, we find that compostable foodware has a much larger footprint than traditional plastics. Additionally, while plant-based, this material is ONLY compostable in a specific environment, which makes it confusing. Especially since a plastic cup and a compostable plastic cup are often virtually identical. Especially after a few beers.
We at The Environmental Center strongly encourage you to find a way to use reusable rather than to buy disposable.
For more information about compostables, check out this thorough report from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
We have FREE weatherproof signage and infrastructure to hang them over your collection carts good for indoor or outdoor occasions. Increase visibility and decrease contamination!
You may have seen our waste station at 4 Peaks, Rubbish Renewed, or Worthy Brewing’s 4th of July party, among others!
We have downloadable signage and bin labels available to help clarify what goes in and what stays out.
Bin labels include: LANDFILL, COMPOST, RECYCLE and optional GLASS & REUSE
Signage includes: LANDFILL, COMPOST, RECYCLE
For much more information about how tomake a low or zero waste event, download our guide. Find info about:
- Volunteers
- Composting
- Working with Vendors
- Education and Promotion
- Etc!
Want a zero-waste event without the work?
Hire The Broomsmen to ensure the event is zero waste. They are available for weddings, too.
