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Special Events Recycling

Overview:  Recycling conserves energy and resources, and saves landfill space. State mandates and University directives recommend that we should increase recycling on campus. Recycling at special or annual events on campus has been virtually non-existent, yet recyclables can represent a large percent of the overall waste generated at an event. UC Berkeley has a multitude of departments and divisions that hold various events for faculty, staff, students, and visitors. UC Berkeley now has the opportunity to be a model campus that strives to protect the environment. Special events are frequently the University’s “public face,” and, as such, can make an important statement about the campus’ commitment to environmental concerns.

Target:  Recyclable materials generated at special events/conferences/annual events.  In particular, beverage containers—aluminum cans, glass bottles (including wine and champagne bottles), plastic beverage containers (#1 and #2)—and cardboard will be targeted. We can also target tin cans, mixed paper, and possibly food waste (for composting), if large amounts are generated. 

PARTICIPANTS:  Event coordinators, event participants, the public. 

logistics:  As special events are planned, event coordinators are requested to contact Campus Recycling and Refuse Services (CRRS) to identify types and amounts of recyclable materials expected to be generated. CRRS will then decide the types and amounts of collection containers needed for the event, and will schedule placement and collection times for the event. CRRS requests at least 48 hours notice of need for recycling services for a special event. 

Collection Process:  CRRS or the Grounds Services staff will place and collect containers for the event. Recyclable beverage containers should be co-mingled in collection containers. Cardboard should be flattened and placed next to the nearest campus dumpster or garbage receptacle provided for the event. Collection services and containers for recycling are free-of-charge. Special arrangements can be made for collection of mixed paper, steel cans, or food waste. Food waste collection should be coordinated with Berkeley Worms, the ASUC Composting Project, at 643-0440, and is fee-based.

Collection Containers:  CRRS will provide 74-gallon restricted aperture containers, appropriate to the amount and type of recyclables expected at the event. Placement of containers will be strategic to the point of generation and disposal. Signage for provided or existing recycling collection containers will also be supplied. Other specific containers may be available as needed, if given sufficient notice. No collection containers can be provided for cardboard. 

Contact Persons:  Please contact Campus Recycling and Refuse Services at 643-4612 or lisabauer@uclink4.berkeley.edu

Thanks for recycling!