ZERO WASTE EVENTS
Many Auckland Council-run events are working towards zero waste, including Ambury Farm Day, CultureFest, the Parnell Festival of Roses, and the Music and Movies in Parks series. Auckland Council is here to support other event organisers to do the same.
A zero-waste event is one where careful consideration is given to the products used on site and where these end up post-event. Planning events in this way may result in most event related waste being recycled, composted or avoided altogether, reducing the amount we’re sending to landfill.
It also means that when you go to a zero-waste event, you’re asked to think about the items you are bringing in and what waste they might generate.
If you are an event organiser looking to run a zero-waste event, our team offers:
- advice on how to reduce your event waste
- free loan gear, including bin lids, display screens, flags, aprons, litter grabbers and litter bin covers
- advice and training for you and your vendors on purchasing suitable packaging
- training for volunteers who may be educating the public in how to dispose of their waste correctly
- training and equipment for auditing your event waste
Visit zerowasteevents.org.nz to learn more and request free support from one of our advisors.
CASE STUDIES
Kaurilands Primary
Earlier this year, after a long break due to Covid, Kaurilands Primary hosted their school gala, successfully diverting an impressive 93% of waste from landfill. The organising committee of parents and teachers aimed to make the event as close to zero waste as possible. They borrowed free loan gear and signage from the council, used reusable items for their Devonshire tea, and encouraged food vendors to opt for compostable packaging whenever possible. Additionally, one of Auckland Council’s Zero Waste Event Advisors trained volunteers to guide attendees on proper waste sorting at bin stations. Watch the event for tips on hosting your own zero waste gathering.
Wakatere Boat Club
In April 2023, the Wakatere Boating Club hosted the Optimist Nationals sailing regatta over five days. The club prioritises sustainability at their events, focusing on waste reduction, water conservation, and beach clean-ups. They offered digital programmes instead of printed ones and collaborated with a sponsor to provide reusable containers for participants to take food away. Watch to discover more of their waste reduction initiatives for events.
