Zero Waste Events at CU Boulder

Looking to be environmentally friendly at your next CU Boulder on campus event? Here is how to be Zero Waste at any event!

Steps to be Zero Waste at your CU Boulder event

Contact the CU Environmental Center Zero Waste Event Team

  • Reach out to the zero waste event team to request service for your event.
  • Please contact us AT LEAST 2 WEEKS in advance of your event.
  • We only support events on the CU Boulder campus or through CU Boulder departments.

Reduce your event waste

  • Start by using reusable food service products. 
  • If your event is in the UMC, you can ask Events Planning and Catering for reusables. Outside of the UMC, companies like Event Rents, rent out reusable serviceware. 
  • Look to eliminate single-use items and packaging.
  • Serve in bulk. Many beverages, condiments, etc. can be purchased in larger sizes.

Use items that can be recycled or composted

If you have to use disposable/single-use food service items:

  • Make sure they are recyclable or compostable.
  • Currently across the Front Range in Colorado, communities including CU are unable to accept compostable serviceware for processing. 
  • Look for recyclable options like alumium cans or cups. 
  • When there is no recyclable or compostable option look for products with sustainable certifications like FSC and SFI. Items with a high post consumer recycled content (over 50%) are also more sustainable. 

Inform your staff and guests

  • The Environmental Center staff can provide training to your event staff and vendors.
  • For large events, "Waste Goalies" can be placed at each station to engage guests.
  • Consider marketing your event as "Sustainable or Zero Waste". This way guests will know what to expect and will recognize your sustainability efforts. Utilize marketing materials to relay these efforts and other sustainable suggestions, encouraging guests to bring their own water bottle or ride public transportation to reduce their footprint at your event.

Create a waste collection plan

  • The Environmental Center staff can best assist with a waste collection plan for your event.
  • Paired bins optimize accuracy in disposal. Provide options to recycle/compost/landfill at each station.
  • Maintain separation of "public" bins and "back of house" bins, as the waste streams are often different.

Other resources

Costs for Zero Waste Services

  •   Hourly rates are based on number of professional staff and student staff working the event.
  •   Minimum time for any event is 2 hours (1 hour set up + 1 hour break down)
  •   Additional collection costs may be necessary for larger events.