Why correct waste sorting is more important than ever
Sorting waste at events is complex. It requires cooperation between organizers, caterers, exhibitors, crew and waste processors. Yet it also offers a powerful lever toward structural sustainability of your event production.
Some facts that make you think:
- There are 29 waste streams that by law must be collected separately.
- Of these, at least 10 occur frequently at events.
- Residual waste is only allowed in transparent bags; black or grey bags are prohibited, so waste processors can check what's inside.
Recently, waste companies have been taking their monitoring duty particularly seriously. They send photos of residual waste containers and charge sorting fees when they find cardboard, PMD or glass in residual waste. Those costs can be as high as €150 per container.
On top of that, organizers also risk fines of up to €10,000 when insufficient separate garbage cans are provided. Proper sorting is therefore not only sustainable, but also financially smart.
8 steps to compliant waste management
Ecofest is happy to share our secrets with you, with this roadmap.
- Map out which waste fractions are released where
Distinguish between:
- Frontsite (audience areas)
- Backsite (crew, catering, technique)
- Outer areas (entrance, parking lots, surrounding streets) - Create a trash can plan
Determine in which zones you will place what types of trash cans and in what numbers. - Designate a waste manager
This person controls the sorting during set-up, show hours and tear-down, and acts as a point of contact for the team. - Briefing is key
Provide a clear briefing for crew and exhibitors - both in writing (email, WhatsApp) and verbally, just before opening. - Check during the event
Replace full bins in a timely manner, check for sorting errors and make sure trash cans have not been moved. - Also sort during dismantling
Fatigue and time pressure often cause errors here. Stay alert until the last container leaves. - Document everything
Take photos of filled trash cans and containers for collection - that way you have proof in case of any inspections. - Request the sorted weights
That way you can track sorting results and improve on subsequent editions.
Ready to raise the bar?
Want to know how your organization can do this practically, or what support Ecofest offers in waste management and sustainable event design?
Visit thebooth from Ecofest, #420, at Festivak and discover the latest tools and trainings for a circular event sector.
