Sustainability

Skagit County Zero-Waste Events

Skagit County Zero-Waste Events is a comprehensive program facilitating recycling, composting and waste reduction at public and private events.
Our program offers:

• Logo certification and promotion
• Free borrowing of portable waste bins and signs
• Technical assistance

Eligible events include conventions, festivals, sporting events, farmers markets, expos, fairs, galas, family reunions, church functions, weddings, meetings, and conferences.

Skagit County would like to provide an update on our ongoing efforts to reduce waste at community events. For many years, the Solid Waste Division has supported recycling at local gatherings through a program that grew into the Zero Waste Events initiative—offering tools and guidance to help event organizers divert both recyclables and compostables from the landfill.

As state laws and policies regarding organics management have evolved, the program has shifted its focus to emphasize recycling. This transition reflects current best practices as advised by the Skagit County Solid Waste Division. While we are no longer operating under the “Zero Waste” model, we remain dedicated to encouraging low-waste practices by supporting recycling education and clean material collection at events.

We now concentrate our efforts on helping events capture high-quality recyclable materials, rather than providing full composting services. We sincerely appreciate your continued partnership and are especially thankful for the many local organizations that stand with us in promoting sustainable waste reduction in our community.

For any questions related to these changes, please contact Callie Martin. (360) 416-1575 or email calliem@co.skagit.wa.us

A Zero-Waste Event is a public or private event that meets the criteria for either our silver or gold certification levels for waste reduction. When you register your event with us, you become eligible to display one of our logos on your promotional materials to help promote your green event.

• Its the law. RCW 70.93.093 requires recycling at official gatherings and sports facilities.
• It reduces global warming. Nearly 80% of waste from public events is food waste, which releases significant amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, as it decomposes in a landfill. Learn more about the environmental costs of organics in landfills.
• It saves money. In 2009, the Anacortes Arts Festival cut their garbage bill in half, from $6,000 to $3,000, through participation in the Zero-Waste Events pilot program. Additionally, the Festival avoided a $5,000 fine for improper grease disposal by providing grease collection drums for biodiesel production.
• It promotes your event! You can display our Zero-Waste Event gold or silver logos on your promotional materials.

More Resources:

• Our own Guide to Hosting a Zero-Waste Event (we'll also mail you a copy of this after you call us to register your event), which explains how to get started, includes tips, and checklists, and additional resources and supplies
  
• Template Vendor Letter to send to any food vendors at your event to ensure your event meets our packaging requirements