Host a Low-Waste Event
The goal of a low-waste event is to divert as much material from the landfill as possible. Whether it’s a family reunion, potluck, music festival, sporting event, or company picnic, no matter the size, a low-waste event is possible! Start by providing a recycling bin and work towards little to no garbage collection. Ideally all the items used at the event are either reusable, recyclable, or compostable.
Low-waste event toolkit
Stay on track to plan and host your low-waste event with our printable Low-waste event checklist.
Quick tips to consider for your event:
- Provide bulk beverage and condiment dispensers.
- Choose reusable plates, cups, utensils, napkins, tablecloths, and decorations.
- Send out reminders to guests on waste reduction tips such as “Please bring a reusable cup.”
- Communicate with event planners and vendors on waste reduction goals and requirements before and during the event.
- Put garbage and recycling bins together and clearly label all bins with accepted materials.
- Monitor the waste in the bins and replace bags as needed.
- Consider donating unserved, prepared food to the Thurston Food Rescue Program.
- Celebrate your waste reduction successes!
Did you know recycling is required by law at official gatherings and sports facilities?
Washington State’s Recycling Law (RCW 70.93.093) requires recycling at official gatherings and sport facilities by vendors who sell beverages in single-use aluminum, glass, or plastic bottles or cans.
Borrow-a-Bin Program
We are here to make recycling easier at your next event with our free recycling and garbage bins. We provide the portable bins, signs, bags, and a how-to guide. Our bins are available on a first come, first served basis and can be picked up at various locations in Thurston County.
How does it work?
- Decide how many bins you need using the guidelines below.
- Choose one of the bin pickup locations from the list below.
- Call or email the pickup location contact at least two weeks before your event.
- Pick up the bins prior to the event during regular business hours.
- Return clean bins and any extra bags to your pickup location within one week of the event.
| Location | Address | Contact | Phone |
| Lacey | Lacey City Hall Water Resources 420 College Street SE Lacey, WA 98503 |
Ali Brown | (360) 742-6830 |
| Olympia | City of Olympia Public Works 1401 Eastside St. SE Olympia, WA 98501 |
Spencer Orman | (360) 753-8752 |
| Rainier | City of Rainier Public Works 600 Minnesota St. N Rainier, WA 98576 |
Ron Gibson | (360) 446-2636 |
| Yelm | City of Yelm Public Works 901 Rhoton Rd. SE Yelm, WA 98597 |
Karli Mitchell | (360) 458-8406 |
| South Thurston County | Thurston County Public Works 9605 Tilley Rd. S Olympia, WA 98512 |
(360) 867-2491 |
Guidelines
In general, we recommend one set of garbage and recycling for every 25 guests. However, this depends on the type and quantity of materials being offered. Each recycling bag can hold up to 200 bottles/cans.
Individual bins each come with the following:
- Frame (measures 38" x 21" x 3", folds flat for easy transportation)
- Lid
- Sign holder
- Sign
- Extra bags (typically 3 per bin)
- Bin assembly directions
A set of a few bins fit on the backseat or in the trunk of most vehicles. A single waste station (recycling bin, trash bin) weighs about 20 pounds.
Bins are easy to set up with one person. Open the frame, lock the bag to the frame, snap the lid to the frame. Setup directions are included in the supplies. For a large event, we recommend having a cart to transport the bins.
You are responsible for disposing of the materials collected at the event. Small amounts of trash and recycling can be placed in your carts for regular curbside collection.
For large amounts, contact your local hauler for a one-time service pick-up. For City of Olympia call (360) 753-8369 option #2 or LeMay, Inc. at (360) 923-0111. The other option is to drop off the materials at the Waste and Recovery Center at Hawks Prairie, Rainier Drop-box, or Rochester Drop-box. There is a fee for trash and recycling is free.