Summer events and festivals will soon be on the horizon!
Many event management companies are already in full swing planning these events. From catering, entertainment, security and so much more – big events such as festivals take a lot of planning and preparation.
Another huge part of planning any event is ensuring there are best practices in place for event waste management. Incorporating an event waste management and sustainability plan for any public event is paramount. Not only does it contribute to a cleaner and safer environment, but it highlights that you are aware of your corporate responsibility and the reduction of your carbon footprint.
What Is Event Waste Management?
Event waste management should factor in how waste is stored, removed, and disposed of. A waste management plan is crucial for any business or organisation carrying out events.
Waste management services include:
- Segregation
- Collection
- Recycling
- Composting
- Disposal
- Bin placement and management
- Education and awareness
- Post event cleanup
- Collaboration with local authorities
- Monitoring and reporting
- Sustainability consultation
The management of waste includes a wide range of activities aimed at reducing the environmental impact of events and reducing the overall ecological footprint created by events.
The Importance of Pre-Event Planning
The earlier plans are in place for effective event waste management, the easier and more successful the event will be.
Contacting local waste management services to find out what is included within their service should be the first step in putting a pre-event plan in place. The local authority may also require sight of your waste management plan prior to the commencement of any event so it is crucial to have this in place as soon as possible.
During pre-event planning it is important to establish what types of waste may be produced so that you can ensure you have actions in place to deal with them.
The most common types of waste are as follows:
- Plastics, cans, and glass
- Cardboard and packaging
- Food waste
- Paper waste
- Campsite waste
- Hazardous materials
- General waste
All of these types of waste are managed separately and should be catered for as part of your event waste management planning.
How to Reduce Waste at An Event
Once you have established the types of waste that may be produced at your event, it is important to ensure that you have the right facilities and companies to manage and dispose of waste.
Implement waste segregation systems with clearly marked bins for event goers to dispose of waste. Ensure there are bins for plastics, cardboard, food waste etc. These should be placed throughout the event to prevent littering and promote recycling.
Ensure that all waste collection areas are clearly marked and that they are easily accessible. We also recommend keeping these areas clean and tidy as discarded waste can encourage others to discard their waste in the same way.
To limit the amount of waste during your event you could consider limiting what can and cannot be brought into the event space, for example, prohibit glass, plastics or other items which are not biodegradable and could cause harm to the environment.
How to Recycle Effectively At An Event
The most efficient and sustainable way to deal with recycling at an event is with the use of sustainable materials such as compostable plates, utensils, and biodegradable cups. These can be disposed of in temporary recycling bins specifically for recyclables, non-recyclables, and compostables throughout different locations within the event.
Consult with vendors prior to the event to emphasise that the event is to be as environmentally friendly as possible and encourage them to only use recyclable materials to promote your objectives.
You could also enlist volunteers to monitor waste areas and assist in the proper disposal of waste materials. This can help to encourage event goers to ensure that their waste is properly disposed of and not simply discarded on the ground or the wrong bins.
Event Waste Management by KCM
At KCM Waste Management, we have provided our expert waste management service to thousands of events from food festivals, business events, outdoor events, and charity events to fairs and music festivals.
We offer a range of container sizes from small, wheeled bins to large roll-on-off bins to ensure they are easily manoeuvred around your event. We are dedicated to achieving 100% landfill avoidance and provide a delivery, collection and disposal service that is completely flexible and tailored to your needs.
Following all collections and disposals, our team can provide you with a full breakdown of all waste recycled so you know that your waste has been dealt with efficiently and in line with your responsibilities as event organisers.
If you are planning an event, contact our friendly team today to find out how we can implement an event waste management plan and service on your behalf.
bins@kcmwaste.com or call 0800 772 0948.