The Hidden Environmental Cost of Events: How Much Waste Do We Really Produce?
Updated November 2024
Events—whether intimate gatherings or large-scale festivals—often leave a significant environmental footprint. Beyond the visible litter, there are hidden costs: resource depletion, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. For organisers and attendees alike, understanding these less apparent environmental impacts is essential. In this article, we’ll explore actionable strategies to help reduce the environmental toll of events, making sustainable choices achievable and impactful.
The Scope of Event Waste in Australia
Australia’s events industry environmental impact is often overlooked. Events of all sizes—be they conferences, festivals, or sports matches—generate significant waste, much of which ends up in landfills or improperly disposed of. Understanding the scope and types of waste generated is essential for developing sustainable event practices.
How Much Waste Do Events in Australia Generate?
Annual Waste Statistics: Australia generates over 75.8 million tonnes of waste annually (dcceew.gov.au). A substantial portion comes from events, where the waste footprint is amplified by large crowds and temporary facilities.
Event-Specific Data:
Festivals: A single multi-day festival can generate several tonnes of waste. For example, Glastonbury’s (UK) waste management reports indicate up to 2,000 tonnes of waste for 200,000 attendees. Australian festivals, though smaller, face comparable challenges.
Conferences: The average conference attendee produces approximately 1.89 kg of waste per day, mostly from single-use items like coffee cups, water bottles, and printed materials (Green Event Management Association).
Types of Waste Produced by Events
Breaking down the waste streams provides insight into which areas require the most urgent attention:
Food Waste
Scale: At Australian events, up to 40% of food goes uneaten. This waste not only represents lost resources but also generates methane emissions when sent to landfills.
Case in Point: The Sydney Royal Easter Show reported that food waste was one of its largest waste categories, prompting composting initiatives.
Single-Use Plastics
Items: Cutlery, plates, straws, cups, and sachets dominate waste bins at events.
Impact: Plastics can take up to 500 years to decompose, releasing microplastics into the environment and harming marine ecosystems (Clean Up Australia).
Textiles and Merchandise Waste
Examples: Branded t-shirts, flags, and lanyards often end up discarded after events.
Challenge: These items are difficult to recycle and typically contain synthetic fibres that do not biodegrade.
Paper Waste
Sources: Flyers, brochures, and printed schedules are commonly discarded.
Better Practices: Shifting to sustainable paper products or using digital alternatives can significantly reduce this waste.
E-Waste
Examples: Batteries, electronics, RFID-enabled wristbands, and projectors create e-waste challenges.
Problem: Proper disposal of these items is often overlooked, and they can leach harmful chemicals into the soil.
Construction and Décor Waste
Temporary Materials: Stages, banners, lighting rigs, and decorative items contribute to event-related landfill waste.
Example: At Splendour in the Grass, dismantling temporary structures generates tonnes of unrecyclable waste annually.
Why This Matters
The sheer volume and variety of waste generated by events create a ripple effect of environmental consequences, including:
Increased greenhouse gas emissions from landfill decomposition.
Resource depletion from the production of disposable items.
Pollution from improperly discarded materials, including plastics and e-waste.
Understanding the scale and breakdown of event waste in Australia is the first step toward implementing effective waste reduction strategies. Next, we’ll explore these environmental impacts in greater detail and uncover actionable solutions.
Identifying Specific Environmental Issues Created by Events
While waste is the most visible environmental consequence of events, the underlying issues extend far beyond what meets the eye. From greenhouse gas emissions to water pollution and biodiversity disruption, events can have a far-reaching impact on our environment. This section breaks down the major issues and explores how these are exacerbated by event-related activities.
1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Source: The carbon footprint of events stems from multiple sources, including:
Travel and Transportation: Air travel, car rides, and logistics for equipment and supplies are major contributors.
Energy Use: Temporary lighting, sound systems, and HVAC units often rely on non-renewable energy.
Impact: Events can significantly increase localised carbon emissions. For example, a music festival hosting 10,000 attendees might generate over 1,000 tonnes of CO2 (Carbon Trust).
Solutions:
Encourage the use of public transportation and carpooling.
Power events with renewable energy sources like solar or wind.
2. Landfill Overflow
Source: Landfills remain the primary destination for waste generated by events, particularly unsorted general waste.
Impact: The decomposition of organic materials like food waste releases methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than CO2.
Solutions:
Partner with local composting facilities to handle organic waste.
Promote waste sorting stations at events to maximise recycling efforts.
3. Resource Depletion
Source: Events often rely on single-use items made from non-renewable resources, such as plastics, paper, and metals.
Impact: The production of these materials consumes finite resources like water and fossil fuels. For example, producing one plastic bottle uses approximately 3 litres of water (WWF Australia).
Solutions:
Replace single-use plastics with reusable or compostable alternatives.
Source materials from recycled content whenever possible.
4. Water Pollution
Source: Improper disposal of waste, including food, plastic, and hazardous materials, can lead to contamination of local waterways.
Impact: Pollution from events can harm aquatic ecosystems and disrupt local biodiversity. For outdoor events, heavy rains can wash waste into rivers and oceans, exacerbating the issue.
Solutions:
Use biodegradable packaging and materials to minimise harmful runoff.
Set up water collection systems to prevent contamination during outdoor events.
5. Biodiversity and Habitat Disruption
Source: Outdoor events often disrupt local ecosystems, affecting flora and fauna. Temporary infrastructure like stages and parking lots can disturb wildlife habitats.
Impact: Sensitive species may be displaced or harmed, and vegetation may be permanently damaged.
Solutions:
Choose event sites with minimal environmental impact, such as existing urban venues.
Limit the use of heavy machinery and ensure proper cleanup post-event.
6. Air and Noise Pollution
Source: Events generate significant air pollution from vehicle emissions, generators, and cooking equipment. Noise pollution from loudspeakers and crowds also impacts local communities and wildlife.
Impact: High noise levels can disrupt breeding patterns for certain species, while air pollution exacerbates health issues for nearby residents.
Solutions:
Implement noise-reduction measures, such as directional speakers.
Opt for electric or hybrid vehicles for event logistics.
The Economic Cost of Waste Disposal for Event Organisers
Managing waste effectively is not just an environmental concern—it’s also a significant financial consideration for event organisers. Waste disposal costs, when combined with penalties for non-compliance and reputational risks, can quickly escalate. By understanding the financial implications, organisers can make informed decisions to manage costs and adopt sustainable practices.
1. Direct Waste Disposal Costs
Bin Hire and Collection Fees: Australian waste management companies charge based on bin size, waste type, and the number of collections.
Example: A 240L general waste bin might cost $25–$50 per pickup, while larger skip bins for construction waste can exceed $500 per pickup (Just Waste Australia).
Landfill Levies: In Australia, landfill disposal is subject to state-specific levies, which can significantly increase costs.
NSW charges up to $146.00 per tonne of general waste (NSW EPA).
Higher levies for mixed or contaminated waste further incentivise recycling and proper waste sorting.
2. Labour Costs
On-Site Waste Management: Hiring staff or contractors to sort and manage waste during the event adds labour costs. For larger events, this can involve multiple workers or shifts.
Post-Event Cleanup: A cleanup crew for a mid-sized outdoor festival can cost thousands, depending on the volume of waste generated.
3. Costs of Recycling and Sorting
Contamination Penalties: Incorrectly sorted recycling often ends up as general waste, incurring higher landfill fees. For example, food-contaminated paper cannot be recycled and must be disposed of as organic or landfill waste.
Specialised Waste Streams: Items like e-waste, hazardous materials, or textiles require separate handling and higher fees for disposal or recycling.
4. Transportation Costs
Distance to Disposal Facilities: Transporting waste from remote event locations to recycling or landfill facilities increases logistics costs, especially for multi-day festivals held in regional areas.
Fuel Surcharges: Rising fuel prices directly affect waste transportation costs.
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Regulatory Fines: Non-compliance with local council waste management requirements or failure to meet sustainability pledges can result in fines. Some Australian councils have introduced stricter waste policies for large public events.
Reputation Damage: Events failing to meet sustainability goals can face public criticism, affecting ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities.
6. Long-Term Economic Benefits of Sustainability
While initial costs of implementing sustainable practices might seem higher, long-term benefits often outweigh these expenses:
Cost Savings Through Reduction: Minimising single-use items and food waste reduces both procurement and disposal costs.
Recycling Rebates: Properly sorted recyclables may be eligible for rebates from recycling facilities.
Improved Attendee Satisfaction: Sustainability is a growing priority for event-goers, with 73% of Australians reporting that they prefer attending eco-friendly events (Sustainable Australia Report).
Strategies to Reduce Waste Costs
Streamlined Waste Management Plans: Work with waste management providers to develop tailored plans that optimise sorting and reduce landfill fees.
Reusable and Compostable Solutions: Opt for products like Terra Tag’s biodegradable name badges, which reduce waste and disposal costs.
Collaborate with Local Partners: Partner with composting and recycling facilities to cut transportation costs and ensure compliance.
Managing the economic costs of event waste requires a proactive approach. By adopting sustainable practices, organisers can not only mitigate financial risks but also enhance the environmental integrity of their events.
Deeper Dive into Types of Event Waste and Their Environmental Impact
Event waste encompasses a variety of materials, each with unique environmental implications. By examining these waste types more closely, we can better understand their impact and identify targeted strategies for sustainable event planning.
1. Food Waste
Scale: Australian events are major contributors to food waste, with studies showing up to 40% of catered food remains uneaten (FoodWise Australia).
Impact:
Decomposing food waste produces methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than CO2.
Wasted food also represents a misuse of water, energy, and labour in the production and transportation chain.
Solutions:
Partner with local food rescue organisations like OzHarvest to redistribute surplus food.
Offer smaller portion sizes or “on-demand” catering to reduce over-preparation.
2. Single-Use Plastics
Common Items: Cutlery, plates, straws, water bottles, and packaging dominate event waste bins.
Impact:
Plastics take centuries to decompose, breaking into microplastics that contaminate soil and water.
Marine ecosystems are particularly vulnerable, with thousands of tonnes of plastic waste ending up in Australian waterways annually (Clean Up Australia).
Solutions:
Transition to biodegradable or compostable alternatives.
Introduce “bring your own” policies for attendees (e.g., reusable cups or cutlery).
3. Textiles and Merchandise Waste
Examples: Branded t-shirts, tote bags, lanyards, and flags are often discarded post-event.
Impact:
Synthetic textiles like polyester release microfibres into the environment when washed or disposed of.
Producing textiles requires large amounts of water and energy.
Solutions:
Use sustainably sourced materials, like organic cotton or recycled polyester.
Offer digital swag options (e.g., downloadable gift codes) instead of physical merchandise.
4. Paper Waste
Sources: Flyers, brochures, tickets, and signage are staples at most events.
Impact:
Although paper is recyclable, improper disposal often leads to contamination.
Paper production is resource-intensive, consuming water and energy and contributing to deforestation.
Solutions:
Switch to digital alternatives like mobile apps or QR codes for schedules and tickets.
Use recycled or seed paper for essential printed materials, such as Terra Tag’s seed paper badges.
5. E-Waste
Examples: Batteries, lighting equipment, projectors, and RFID wristbands are common in modern events.
Impact:
Improper disposal leads to harmful chemicals, such as lead and mercury, leaching into the soil and water.
Globally, only 20% of e-waste is recycled (Global E-Waste Monitor).
Solutions:
Use rental services for tech equipment to extend the life of devices.
Establish dedicated e-waste collection points at events.
6. Construction and Décor Waste
Sources: Temporary structures like stages, booths, and banners, along with event-specific decorations.
Impact:
These materials often consist of non-recyclable composites, contributing heavily to landfill waste.
Transporting and disposing of large volumes of décor and setup waste increases the event’s carbon footprint.
Solutions:
Opt for modular or reusable construction materials.
Rent instead of buying equipment and décor whenever possible.
7. Unsorted Waste and Contamination
Impact:
Contaminated recyclables, such as greasy pizza boxes or food-soiled paper, often end up in landfills.
Mixed waste streams increase disposal costs and complicate recycling processes.
Solutions:
Provide clear signage and staffed waste stations to educate attendees about proper disposal.
Invest in pre-event waste management training for staff and volunteers.
By addressing each waste type with specific strategies, event organisers can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. This holistic approach not only minimises waste but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, aligning with growing public expectations.
Strategies to Plan and Host Sustainable Events
Hosting an eco-friendly event requires thoughtful planning and strategic decisions to minimise waste, reduce emissions, and promote sustainability. Below, we outline actionable strategies for organisers to create environmentally responsible events while maintaining a high-quality attendee experience.
1. Implement a Green Checklist
Use Terra Tag’s Green Event Checklist to guide every stage of your event planning.
Focus on core areas such as waste management, energy use, transportation, and attendee engagement.
2. Choose Sustainable Venues
What to Look For: Venues with energy-efficient systems, water-saving features, and eco-certifications (e.g., Green Star ratings in Australia).
Why It Matters: Choosing a venue committed to sustainability reduces the carbon footprint of your event and sets the tone for eco-friendly operations.
3. Prioritise Sustainable or Digital Solutions
Examples:
Use apps or websites for event schedules, attendee check-ins, and feedback forms.
Replace paper tickets and brochures with QR codes or digital passes.
Impact: Digital or eco-friendly solutions cut down on paper waste and streamline operations.
4. Sustainable Catering
Food and Beverage Choices:
Opt for plant-based menus, which have a lower carbon footprint than meat-heavy options.
Prioritise local and seasonal ingredients to reduce transportation emissions.
Waste Management:
Collaborate with composting facilities to handle food waste.
Offer attendees the option to bring reusable utensils and plates.
5. Reduce Single-Use Plastics
Alternatives:
Provide reusable or compostable cutlery, plates, and straws.
Offer water refill stations instead of single-use bottled water.
Example: Events like the Falls Festival have successfully implemented plastic-free initiatives.
6. Eco-Friendly Name Badges and Materials
Use products made from recycled or plantable materials, such as Terra Tag’s seed paper badges and table cards.
Include QR codes on badges to link to digital event guides, reducing the need for printed materials.
7. Encourage Green Transportation
Options for Attendees:
Promote public transport options and offer discounts for attendees who use them.
Provide bike parking or shuttles from nearby transit hubs.
For Organisers:
Opt for electric or hybrid vehicles for event logistics.
8. Collaborate with Eco-Conscious Vendors
Partner with suppliers who prioritise sustainable practices, such as using compostable packaging or sourcing renewable energy.
Audit vendors to ensure alignment with your sustainability goals.
9. Engage Attendees in Sustainability
Pre-Event Education: Share sustainability tips with attendees via email or social media before the event.
On-Site Engagement:
Use clear signage to guide waste sorting.
Host interactive workshops or booths on eco-friendly practices.
Post-Event Follow-Up: Share sustainability outcomes, such as the amount of waste diverted from landfill, to inspire attendees for future events.
10. Monitor and Measure Impact
Collect data on waste generated, energy consumed, and emissions produced during the event.
Use tools like carbon calculators to estimate the event’s environmental impact.
Publish a sustainability report to showcase your commitment and identify areas for improvement.
Bonus: Incorporate Sustainability into Event Branding
Highlight your sustainability efforts in marketing materials to attract eco-conscious attendees.
Use phrases like “zero-waste event” or “carbon-neutral conference” to position your event as an industry leader in sustainability.
By adopting these strategies, event organisers can drastically reduce the environmental impact of their events, saving costs, protecting the planet, and meeting growing demand for eco-friendly practices.
Let’s Start to Make Sustainability the Norm for Events
The environmental cost of events is undeniable, but we have the power to change this narrative. By choosing eco-friendly alternatives, reducing waste where possible, and making conscious decisions during the planning process, we can make events not only memorable but also environmentally responsible.
If you’re looking to make your next event as sustainable as possible, Terra Tag offers a variety of products to support your green goals. Let’s work together to leave a positive impact on our planet.
Contact us today to find out more about our sustainable solutions.
