Sustainable Events Guide

Simple Steps with Huge Impact

For more information on sustainability at Swarthmore, including helpful waste sorting resources and guidelines, visit the Sustainability website.

This Green Events Guide provides information for event organizers to reduce the waste and carbon footprint of their events.

Use digital communication (social media or email) to promote the event. Communicate beforehand that this is a green event or a sustainable event.
If you have to print materials, print double-sided and on reused/recycled paper.
Choose sustainable and reusable decorations and signage for the event.

Book your events on Swat Central with the specific start and end times; heating and A/C schedules are based on those times.
When booking space on Swat Central, request waste bins. Indicate if you will have food or drink at your event. If you are ordering a large amount of food, please request additional waste bins, especially compost bins.
If you would like a waste sorting training or support at the event, reach out to zerowaste@swarthmore.edu.

Aim for a "plant-forward" menu.
Ask your caterer or food provider about compostable wares. Refuse single-use plastic plates, cups, and utensils.
- If using a caterer, check Swarthmore College's Catering Policy to ensure the vendor meets the College’s sustainability requirements.
Request compostable utensils, plates, and cups, and utensils from the catering provider, or buy compostable tableware at the Swarthmore Campus and Community Store.
Have people RSVP ahead of time so you know how much food to order.
Sign up for the Food Recovery Fridge Fridge Liason program here to have your food picked up after the event and delivered to the Food Recovery Fridge in Science Center 199 Lobby. You must sign up forty-eight hours in advance.
Try something new - ask guests to BYOE (Bring Your Own Everything), which includes reusable utensils, mugs, and plates.

If you have questions about zero waste products or need zero waste support, contact zerowaste@swarthmore.edu.

Make sure waste receptacles are conveniently placed around the event
If not already displayed on waste receptacles, put up the College's newest waste disposal signage.
Use reusable name tags and materials when possible.
Explain to attendees how to sort their waste.
Remind guests of sustainability intentions and announce that this is a green event.
Encourage guests to take leftovers with them. Bring remaining food to the Food Recovery Fridge in Science Center 199 Lobby, or sign up here for the Food Recovery Fridge Liaison program to have someone come pick up the leftovers and bring them to the fridge.

Check that guests have properly sorted their waste. Re-sort if necessary.
Turn everything off when not in use, e.g., lights, computers, etc.
Post about your event on social media! Make sure to tag your friends.
Consider collecting waste data from your events, if possible.
Reflect on what worked well and what can be improved upon for next time to make your event more green!

If you have any questions or need assistance in planning a sustainable event, please reach out to: sustainability@swarthmore.edu or space@swarthmore.edu.