Step 1:

Determine if your event will generate waste.  If you expect to generate waste at your event, move on to Step 2.

Step 2:

Download the University of Iowa Zero Waste Event Guide to help you begin planning your event to be waste-free.

Step 3:

Determine how you will collect recyclable and/or compostable materials at your event.  Does the venue already have compost bins you can use or will you need to bring in your own bins?  If you need to bring your own bins, consider borrowing Cleartainers from the Office of Sustainability and the Environment.  To request Cleartainers for your event, simply fill out this form.

Step 4:

Determine where your landfill, recyclable and/or compostable materials will go after the event.  Recycling and landfill bins are available at the dock of most buildings on campus and can be utilized for small- to medium-sized events.  Work with the Building Coordinator at the building you plan to use for recycling/landfill disposal to obtain permission to use their dumpsters, or to arrange for additional services during your event.

The University does not have compost drop-off sites for events.  If an event collects compostable materials, the event coordinator(s) must make arrangements to dispose of those materials.  Compost disposal options can be found here.

Step 5:

During your event, set up your recycling and/or compost collection containers and ensure they are well labeled and staffed for the entire duration of the event.  The local compost facility does not accept bags of compost if they have become too contaminated.  All bags must have less than 1% contamination, which is why it is important to ensure that the compost stations are monitored by staff or volunteers at all times.

Step 6: 

After the event, ensure the recycling and compost are free from any contamination.  Then, dispose of materials as planned in Step 4.