Five Easy Swaps for Hosting a Zero-Waste Event this Summer
Growing up in an Asian household, I learned early that resources were meant to be respected, not wasted. Family meals were prepared using as much of the animal or ingredient as possible, with very little left behind.
Growing up in an Asian household, I learned early that resources were meant to be respected, not wasted. Family meals were prepared using as much of the animal or ingredient as possible, with very little left behind. We also focused on using what we already owned, repairing what we could and sharing resources. Those values weren’t called “zero waste” at the time, but they represent the principles that guide sustainable, waste-free living today.
As we celebrate this summer, I encourage everyone to bring back the values we grew up with and include zero-waste practices at our events and celebrations to reduce waste and build a more sustainable future. Small changes can have a huge impact on our environment.
Here are five easy swaps to get started.
- Swap printed invitations for electronic invitations. Save paper, postage, and time by using digital invitations and online RSVPs. It’s an easy way to reduce waste before your event even begins.
- Swap one trash can for a three-bin waste station. Make it easy for guests to sort materials correctly. Set up clearly labeled compost, recycle, and landfill bins together in one location, using simple signs or pictures that show what belongs in each bin (note: check local requirements as this may vary). Better yet, ask a volunteer to help guests correctly sort their waste into the right bins. Providing compost and recycling options also helps meet mandatory recycling and composting goals in California. By offering these services, you help support statewide efforts to recover valuable materials and reduce organic waste sent to landfills.
- Swap bottled water for beverage stations. Instead of providing individual bottled water, offer water dispensers or beverage stations and encourage guests to bring reusable water bottles or provide reusable cups. If bottled beverages are needed, collect the California Redemption Value (CRV)-eligible containers, including wine and liquor bottles, so they can be redeemed for cash back at a recycling site.
- Swap disposable decorations for reusable décor. Decorations and event materials can be used more than once, especially if you choose durable items such as fabric tablecloths, real dishware, string lights, hanging lanterns, vases, or seasonal items that can be stored and enjoyed again. Reusable décor often looks more polished, can be shared or borrowed, reduces waste, and saves money over time.
- Swap excessive food waste for thoughtful meal planning. Food is one of the largest sources of waste after celebrations, but with a little planning, it can be greatly reduced. With helpful tools like the Guestimator to plan the menu and estimate food quantities, you can reduce food waste and save money. After the event, encourage guests to take any remaining food home or work with a local food recovery organization in advance to donate the extra food.
Small Changes Make a Big Difference
Hosting a zero-waste event isn’t about getting everything perfect. It’s about making thoughtful decisions that reduce waste and pollution, save resources and money, and inspire others to do the same. Change can start small and build over time.
Ready to take the next step? Visit RecyclingReimaginedCa.com to download CalRecycle’s Zero-Waste Event Toolkit, complete with planning checklists, print-ready waste station signs, frequently asked questions, and practical resources to help make your next celebration both memorable and sustainable. Learn more about CalRecycle at CalRecycle.ca.gov.
