Plan a Zero Waste Business Event

Think re-usable, recyclable or compostable. Here is a great Zero Waste Event Planning Checklist.

Preventing and Reducing Waste

• Print double-sided promotional materials and handouts.
• Limit distribution of handouts and allow attendees to order copies.
• Provide reusable name badges.

Recycling and Managing Waste

• Collect all recyclables in meeting, exhibit and food vending areas.
• Encourage use of reusable beverage containers; sell or provide refillable containers.

Conserving Energy and Reducing Traffic

• Seek naturally lighted meeting and exhibit spaces.
• Publicize mass transportation options.
• Provide shuttle service to and from event site.

Contracting Food Service and Lodging

• Plan food service needs carefully to avoid unnecessary waste.
• Consider use of durable food service items.
• Donate excess food to charitable organizations.
• Work with hotel on non-replacement of linens, soaps, etc.

Buying Environmentally Aware Products

• Use recycled paper and vegetable- and soy-based inks for promotional materials and handouts.
• Provide reusable and/or recyclable containers for handouts or samples (pocket or file folders, cloth bags).

Educating Participants and Exhibitors

• Request the use of recycled and recyclable handouts or giveaways and the collection of unused items for use at another event.
• Encourage participants to recycle materials at the event.
• Reward participation by communicating environmental savings achieved.

For more information, try these helpful links for planning a host a zero waste event for your business:

• Make Less Garbage
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• eco.cycle