Recycling Away From Home

Special Events Recycling

Fairs, festivals and events are a matter of state pride in Wisconsin. Along with the fun and festivity however, come mountains of trash. Quite a bit of that trash is recyclable and should be recycled. Not only is recycling of certain materials required by state and local law at special events and festivals, but recycling and other waste reduction efforts can cut down on disposal costs, and may even generate extra income.

While recycling at these events may appear a daunting feat, a number of event organizers have shown that it can be done effectively and efficiently. By coordinating recycling efforts with local voluntary organizations and civic groups, you can increase buy-in and civic pride in your accomplishments.

The Wisconsin recycling law and local ordinances require owners of commercial, industrial, retail and government facilities to provide adequate, separate containers for recycling, regularly notify all users and occupants of the facilities about the recycling programs, and provide for the collection and delivery of recyclable materials to a recycling facility. Materials likely to be found at special events that must be recycled, include aluminum and plastic beverage containers and cardboard. With a little planning ahead, event organizers can arrange for their recycling AND implement strategies to reduce the amount of waste generated.

Since many special events are held on or in government facilities, including parks, the governing bodies of those facilities are responsible for recycling. Local governments who allow the use or lease their buildings and grounds for festivals or other events must provide for recycling either by doing it themselves or requiring the organizers of the event to do so. If you want the organizers to be responsible for recycling, you should include recycling requirement in the permit, lease agreement or contract.

More information and tools for special event recycling:

• Special Events: Recycling and Waste Management [PDF 250KB]
• The Event Planner's Guide to Waste Reduction [exit DNR]

Wisconsin Rest Area Recycling Program

In 1992, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation initiated an innovative rest area recycling program throughout the state in an effort to increase statewide recycling rates. Today, rest area visitors consistently provide positive feedback about the recycling services at rest areas. This successful program proves that if recycling is offered at rest areas, travelers take notice. See how Wisconsin brought recycling to the state's highway rest areas [PDF 102KB exit DNR]

Recycling at Wisconsin's State Parks

Most Wisconsin state park and forest picnic areas, shelters, beaches and other day-use areas have no garbage or recycling bins. When you visit for a few hours or less, you'll need to "Carry in and carry out" and take your garbage and recyclables home with you.

Campsites, buildings and picnic area do not have trash cans. However, there are some dumpsters in the campgrounds for your use if necessary. Bins are also available for recyclable items of glass, plastic, aluminum and tin.