PARKS EVENT RECYCLING
Most of the waste generated within parks come from community
visitors. While waste from normal operating days may be easily
maintained, parks are often the site of concerts, festivals, and
other special events that could potentially overwhelm the park’s
waste or recycling capacity.
For special events in local parks, planning ahead can help
decrease the amount of waste generated.
1.
Before the
event day, determine what recycling options the park already has
in place. This may
include bins and signs already located within the park.
Event organizers should also determine what type of waste
will be generated during the event, such as food containers,
beverage containers, cardboard, paper from flyers, and other
types of material from souvenirs.
a.
Consider
options that will reduce the amount of waste created, such as
limiting food packaging.
b.
Work with
everyone involved in the event to create a recycling plan.
Involve the vendors who will be participating in the event,
indicating the targeted materials for recycling. Make the
recycling responsibilities of vendors clear in a mutual
contract.
c.
Make an
informed decision when choosing a recycling hauler.
Inquire about any special deals, as well as the company’s
experience hauling for special events.
Consider the range of acceptable materials, collection
container availability, and the hauler’s willingness and ability
to collect and report data.
d.
Inform your
event staff of recycling locations and issue recycling duties to
each person. Many volunteers can be recruited through message
boards, schools, and local civic clubs.
e.
Choose
recycling bins wisely. Bins may be rented, purchased, or loaned
from some recycling haulers.
Make sure the recycling bins are visually distinct from
trash receptacles.
Be sure the bins will hold up in the weather, and purchase more
durable bins for extended events.
If possible, use clear liners for the bins, which allows
for easier monitoring.
f.
Make a plan for
food waste. Reduce food waste by purchasing bulk items versus
those that are individually packaged, and use refillable
containers for condiments.
Explore local composting options for food scraps and
contaminated paper. Any prepared or fresh leftover food can be
donated to charities or food banks.
These organizations may even be willing to help with
collection.
2.
On the day or
days of the park event, allow plenty of time to organize
supplies and volunteers.
a.
Focus bin
placement in high traffic areas near exits and entrances,
restrooms, and concession areas.
Provide a location map for any attendees and event staff.
b.
Signs and
banners with graphics help easily direct attendees.
Images of the recyclables also help non-English speakers
to comply.
c.
Create a
central location where haulers can pick up materials and staff
can sort and observe material overflow.
3.
After the event
is over, be sure to coordinate with vendors to collect their
recyclables. Appoint
volunteers to oversee and assist with breakdown of booths,
sorting, collecting, and transporting materials for pickup.
a.
Obtain
numerical amounts and weights of materials from your contracted
hauler.
b.
Gather feedback
and suggestions from staff, organizers, volunteers, and vendors
about the recycling plan.
c.
Write a summary
of the recycling results for future plans.
Provide a copy of these results to the event staff,
vendors, and other stakeholders.
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