Waste Reduction Planning and Implementation for Owners/Operators

Basic Steps

1. Policy. Planning for waste reduction starts at the top. A visible commitment from your venue or event and well-defined plan are the keys to implementing a successful waste reduction plan. Adopt a waste reduction policy.
   • Industry groups and associations have developed model voluntary planning guidelines for waste reduction and environmental programs. They include:
     • National Ski Areas Association “Sustainable Slopes“
2. Goal. Commit to a specific waste reduction goal.
3. Plan. Develop an action plan. The following are resources to assist you in developing a waste reduction plan:
   • Sample waste prevention action plan published by CalRecycle.
4. Information. Manage and track information, including regular reports on tonnage, program costs, and savings.
5. Staff. Assign and train staff. Designate roles and responsibilities of the waste diversion staff team, provide a training schedule, and staff motivational tools.
6. Analyze. Conduct a waste analysis to identify recyclable materials and current waste-collection practices.
7. Space. Designate spaces on the property for collecting all recyclable materials generated on the premises. The Recycling Space Allocation Guide was developed to assist local agencies in developing recycling space allocation ordinances.
8. Handling. Identify how recyclable materials will be handled (e.g., on-site collection and processing, off-site transport).
9. Reduce. Identify opportunities to reduce waste through material reuse and conscientious purchasing. See the CalRecycle publication: Waste Reduction Through Business Purchasing.
10. Budget. Budget financial resources and develop a timeline for implementation.
11. Evaluate. Periodically evaluate your programs and modify your plan as needed. Track your program using CalRecycle’s suggested data sheet. Owners/operators should return the completed data sheet as requested by their local jurisdiction.