Going "Green" just takes a little extra thought.
You'll need a good game plan and "green" checklist if your event is a big event and you want to show that you've got some know-how.
Here's my "Green" checklist that I use to get it right...
1.) Be sure to check with your garbage hauler: Do they handle recycling materials?
- If they can, determine what types of materials can be collected and if they need to be separated.
- If not, determine how recyclables will be collected and transported to a collection facility. For more information, call 1.800.CLEAN.UP or visit earth911.com.
2.) Your cooperation with Green Companies is imperative.
- Buy items that come with less packaging.
- Buy items in recyclable packaging.
- Recycle boxes and wooden palettes used to transport supplies and other things.
3.) Discuss with your Green Game Plan with Event Maintenance Staff: How many trash/recycling containers are needed and what are their best locations?
- Trash cans and recycling bins should be in plain view and easy walking distance from any location at your event.
- Ensure that collection sites are well-marked and highly visible for event attendees.
- For larger events, try lining up trash cans and recycling bins together instead of scattering single or pairs of containers around an area.
- Place recycling bins near food stations only if you're using recyclable plates and cutlery (or for cans and bottles). Otherwise, this location will increase contamination of recycling bins.
- Establish convenient bulk recycling container sites to handle full trash and recyclable bags.
4.) Be sure to promote your Event as "Green".
- Integrate litter-free and recycling messages into all of your event information.
- Locate appropriate placement for banners and signs, if necessary.
5.) Recruit and Train your Volunteers.
- Estimate 10 to 20 volunteers per 1000 attendees that are present. If your event takes place over several hours (or days), determine how many volunteers are needed per shift.
- Let volunteers know of any special arrangements for the event, if applicable - such as wardrobe suggestions, free entry into your event, designated or free parking, etc.
- Distribute supplies, event maps (if necessary), and other items as needed.
- Assign duties for before, during and after the event.
- Before: Post items (signage and recycle collection bins) in designated areas.
- During: Monitor trash and recycling bins, use litter grabbers to move items to proper receptacles and to remove items from the ground, tie off and replace full bags at containers, take pictures before, during and after the event, separate recyclables into categories if necessary (i.e. glass, plastic, etc.).
- After: Help collect signs, bins, etc. and ensure all items are clean and suitable for storage.
Image source: Wikipedia
Green event planner, Event planning, Corporate events, Recycling, Waste container, Garbage, Plastic, Environment, Litter, Packaging and labeling, Transport, Green event management, Sustainable events, Sustainable event management: Technorati Tags
Written by Carlo of Carlo At Your Service Productions
