Reduce event waste with Zero Waste Box™
There’s a Zero Waste Box for any event. From international conferences to fun runs to friendsgiving, we can help you get your event closer to zero waste.
Here are some tips for getting started.
1. Find the right Zero Waste Boxes
Explore common Zero Waste Boxes choices based on your event type. Purchase the box for a specific type of trash (ex. corks, straws) or choose one of the many Zero Waste Boxes that accept several types of trash. Mix and match to #RecycleEverything.
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
We have dozens of additional solutions, including our All-In-One - Zero Waste Box™.
Browse more event solutions →
2. Order your Zero Waste Boxes
How many Zero Waste Boxes do you need? And what sizes? Here are some tips.
The Zero Waste Box size you need depends on the number of event attendees you and the type of waste being collected (more name tags will fit in a box than plastic cups). Here’s a basic guideline:
- For larger events, factor in strategic and convenient collection points when deciding the number of Zero Waste Boxes you need. For instance, for dining disposables, have one near each food and beverage station and another at the main exit.
- Zero Waste Boxes never expire, so it’s best to order larger sizes or more boxes and use them until they’re full.
- Well-packed Zero Waste Boxes hold a lot more! Save space by stacking disposable cups instead of just throwing them in.
- Running out of space in your Zero Waste Boxes during your event? Save trash in bags or cardboard boxes you have on hand and order additional Zero Waste Boxes after the event.
3. Set up your Zero Waste Boxes
- We recommend waiting to set up your Zero Waste Boxes until you’ve brought them to their locations. They ship flat for easier transport.
- Is your event outdoors? Plan to put your Zero Waste Boxes in a covered location (such as a tent) in case of inclement weather.
- Setup is easy! Here’s an instructional video.
- Create a map of where the Zero Waste Boxes are located and add it to your programs or flyers so attendees can easily find them.
- Create signage directing attendees to your Zero Waste Boxes and place it throughout the venue.
- Create flyers to place near your boxes that indicate exactly what can go in the box. (A full list can be found for each box on shop.terracycle.com).
4. Best practices for event day
- In the opening address of your event, mention that you have Zero Waste Boxes available at specific locations. Remind guests regularly if possible.
- Assign “bin guards” to stand near Zero Waste Boxes throughout the event. Bin guards can help attendees figure out exactly what can go in each Zero Waste Box, explain the purpose of the Zero Waste Boxes, and pack the boxes efficiently.
- Make a plan for return shipping. Assign someone to check how full boxes are, consolidate waste if needed, and determine which boxes need to be shipped to TerraCycle and which have space for another event.
- All boxes come with a prepaid UPS label already attached. Those that are ready to be shipped simply need to be sealed with tape and dropped off at a UPS location. You can also schedule a pickup for an additional fee via UPS.com.
Even more ways to recycle!
In addition to Zero Waste Box™, TerraCycle offers hundreds of free recycling programs. Whether you're hosting a festival, sporting event or tailgate, our TerraCycle programs are here to support all of your recycling needs.
What happens to the waste?
We guarantee that we recycle all of the accepted waste sent to us through our Zero Waste Boxes. Your event waste will be recycled into all sorts of things, including outdoor furniture, plastic shipping pallets, flooring tiles, and much more.