Zero Waste SA guidelines for managing waste at events and venues

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STEP 3.
PROVIDING
INFRASTRUCTURE
3.2 CHOOSING YOUR INFRASTRUCTURE
Base your decision about the waste streams you will
separate, and therefore the types of bins you will need
at your event or venue, on your:
> expected waste streams
> options for improvement
> waste management improvement goals.
that co-locating all bins minimises contamination
rates. A recycling bin on its own has a much higher
chance of contamination than the same bin colocated
with a general waste bin. People can place
items they are unsure about in the general waste bin
and contamination in the recycling stream will be
minimised. Anecdotal evidence also suggests less
contamination in bins placed side-by-side than in
those set back-to-back.
STEP
Determine the best configurations for both front of
house and back of house.
3.3 FRONT OF HOUSE
Structure
You might already have bins that can be easily modified
using the signage available from the Zero Waste SA
website, or you may need to purchase or hire new bins;
your waste contractor may provide bins as part of their
service. Whatever the case, make sure the bins are
structurally sound and easy to use and see, even from
a reasonable distance. The height of the bin itself or
the use of overhead signage might be a consideration
for large outdoor events. Bins should be easy to locate
for patrons and staff, and most importantly easy to use
– no hard to use lids or openings!
Place the waste-material signs on the side and at the
point of disposal (lid or opening) of each bin. You may
even decide to use overhead signage or to have your
entire bin in the colour of the intended waste stream
to be deposited.
Bin placement and service requirements
Where more than one bin type will be provided, such
as a general waste bin and a recycling bin, co-locate
(locate together) all bin options. Patrons can assess
the options and select the correct bin. Anecdotal
evidence and waste statistics from events suggests
Think carefully about the actual location of bins. They
should be easily accessible, highly visible and facing
the flow of traffic through an area. Visibility is very
important, particularly at night events or in darkly
lit venues. Locate bins in well lit areas, or consider
waste management needs when planning locations
of portable lighting.
Estimate when most material will be generated. Just
before, during and/or just after main meal times are
probably the best times for bins to be emptied or
replaced – your event or venue remains clean and
tidy, and contamination of waste streams is less likely.
Frequent monitoring and servicing will help all bin
options be available at any time. Volunteers or staff
positioned at bin stations during periods of high use
(e.g. meal times) can help with the correct separation
of waste or recycling items.
If one bin becomes full in a co-located cluster of
bins, people use the next available bin option, even
if it is incorrect for the waste. They are unlikely to
walk to another bin station to find an empty waste or
recycling bin.