The future of reuse has never been more promising, and local governments play a key role in ensuring its success and widespread adoption. Taking proactive steps to minimise waste and reduce single-use packaging sets an example for the community to follow.

Reuse is a valuable but often overlooked strategy in achieving your council's sustainability goals and targets. However, it plays a crucial role in driving progress. 

Unlike other measures that may go unnoticed by the public, implementing reuse initiatives—such as using reusable food ware at events — offers a clear and visible demonstration of your council's commitment to sustainability.

This guide is designed to help councils develop a plan to bring to implement reuse practices into their own events and those on council properties.

1. DETERMINE YOUR OBJECTIVES 

Begin by clearly defining what you aim to achieve. Your event reuse objectives should align with your broader council sustainability goals. Consider using the SMART method to ensure they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Examples of objectives may include:

• Achieving a 50% reduction in landfill waste by the end of the year.

• Reducing litter in parks, beaches, and other natural environments by 30%.

• Lowering carbon emissions associated with waste management by 25%.

• An 80% adoption rate of reuse at all council-run events.

• Meeting regional waste reduction targets and aligning with specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

  
  

2. CREATE STRATEGIES TO ACCOMPLISH OBJECTIVES

Below are some strategy examples you can adapt to meet your own specific objectives:

Adopt Reuse Policies for Events

• Mandate Reuse Standards: Require all council-organised and council-approved events to adhere to reuse guidelines, such as using reusable food and beverage containers, decorations, and materials. 

  
  

Enforce and Support Regulations

• Regulate Single-Use Items: Introduce and enforce regulations that limit or ban single-use items at events on council-owned property.

• Provide Support for Transition: Offer support and resources to event organisers and vendors to help them transition to sustainable practices, such as providing access to reusable alternatives or offering workshops on sustainable event planning.

• Incentivise Compliance: Offer incentives, such as reduced event permit fees, waste fees or sustainability grants, for events that exceed reuse and sustainability benchmarks.

  
  

Provide Resources and Infrastructure

• Reusable Resource Kits: Create and distribute kits that include reusable items like cutlery, plates, cups, and signage for council run community events. A booking system, similar to vehicle fleet bookings could be set up, so all departments can utilise the reuse kit for their specific events. 

• On-Site Refill Stations: Install water refill stations and encourage vendors to offer refillable options for drinks and food items. Installing water refill stations at all major event sites will reduce your reliance on single-use plastic bottles.

  
  

Engage and Educate the wider Community to be more reuse aware

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of reuse. Campaigns could include workshops, social media, and educational programs to promote reusable alternatives.

• Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local businesses to promote reuse practices. The City of Hobart offers reduced waste fees for businesses that actively engage in reuse initiatives and provides them with recognition in local media.

Measure and Monitor Progress

• Track Waste Reduction: Implement a system to measure the amount of waste diverted from landfills at council events, providing regular reports to the community. 

• Set and Review Targets: Establish clear waste reduction and reuse targets, and review them periodically. 

  
  

Additional Strategies

• Develop Local Case Studies: Showcase successful examples of reuse at council events to encourage broader adoption.

  
  

3. IMPLEMENT REUSABLES AT YOUR EVENTS

Procurement

• Research Suppliers: Identify suppliers that offer high-quality reusable food ware and cups at competitive prices, such as Go 2 Cup or local event hire providers.

• Bulk Purchasing: Consider bulk purchases to reduce costs and shipping emissions.

• Local Sourcing: Prioritise local vendors to support the regional economy and minimise carbon emissions from transportation.

  
  

Selecting Reusable Food ware and Cups

• Safety: Ensure all materials are food-grade and free from harmful chemicals.

• Design: Choose items that are aesthetically pleasing and align with event branding or are versatile enough to be reused across different events.

• Utensils and Plates: Opt for durable materials like stainless steel or reusable plastic that are long-lasting and can withstand frequent use.

• Cups: Choose options made from stainless steel, glass, ceramic, or BPA-free plastic.

• Compostable Alternatives: Where reuse is unavailable, ensure compostable alternatives are compliant with regulations. Encourage vendors to use resources like the Ban Solution Finder website and Plastic Free Places guides. 

  
  

Logistics

Efficient handling of reusable food ware involves three key steps: distribution, collection, and washing. 

• Distribution to Vendors

  • Pre-Event: Brief vendors, staff and volunteers on procedures and distribute items based on service volume needs. Provide an inventory checklist.

  • On-Site: Use a central pick-up point with staff support and a reserve stock for shortages. Schedule regular check-ins with vendors during service to ensure there are no shortages.

    
    

• Collection of Dirty Items

  • Attendee Drop-Off: Set up labelled collection bins with clear signage across the event site.

  • Vendor Pick-Up: Schedule regular collection of dirty items directly from vendors.

  • Transport: Use carts or bins to move items efficiently to washing areas.

    
    

• Washing and Sanitisation

  • On-Site (if used): Set up washing stations with industrial dishwashers or sinks, ensuring hygiene compliance. A guide on how to run a dishwashing station at your event can be found here.

  • Off-Site (if preferred): Partner with a local dishwashing service and transport dirty items in sealed containers.

    
    

• Post-Event

  • Audit inventory: Audit stock and collect feedback for system improvements.

    
    
    
    

4. PROMOTION

Public Outreach

• Inform Attendees: Communicate the shift to reusable foodware through event marketing, signage, social media, and vendor engagement.

• Highlight Benefits: Emphasise the environmental, economic, and social benefits of reuse to encourage participation.

  
  

Education and Signage

• On-Site Guidance: Provide educational materials and signage to guide attendees on the use and return of reusable items.

  
  
  
  

5. MONITORING AND EVALUATION

Data Collection

• Track Indicators: Monitor metrics like waste diversion rates and single-use item reduction.

• Feedback: Conduct surveys or feedback sessions to gauge attendee satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.

  
  

Continuous Improvement

• Refine Processes: Use feedback and data analysis to improve strategies and address challenges.

• Expand Usage: Explore opportunities to extend reusable foodware practices to other events or venues within the community.

  
  

Collaboration

• Engage Stakeholders: Work with local businesses, schools, and community organisations to promote the widespread adoption of reusable event practices.

CONCLUSION

By implementing these steps, local governments can effectively introduce a reusable food ware and cup program for their events, contributing to environmental sustainability and fostering a culture of reuse within the community.