How To Be a Zero Waste Host

Replace disposable utensils, plates, cups and napkins with reusable alternatives.

Set up a sorting station, with instructional signs, to collect single-stream recycling, compost and trash. Three-part stations encourage recycling and composting, and reduce contamination.

Remember: only food scraps and plants belong in your curbside compost bin. So, compost those sandwich scraps and watermelon rinds, but please put paper plates, cups and napkins in the trash.

Foldable zero waste stations can be rented from Eco-Cycle.

Instead of reaching for a pack of single-use bottled water, choose reusable cups and water pitchers, or ask guests to bring their own water bottles.

If drinking water is not available at your event location, consider buying gallon jugs of water instead of individual bottles.

The life cycle of bottled water, from creation to disposal, supports the oil industry, releases greenhouse gases and pollutes our planet. Bottled water is also much more costly than tap – often 3,000% more expensive per gallon.

If sandwiches, burritos or desserts must be wrapped, ask caterers to use aluminum foil or paper wrap. Better yet, ask for multiple items to be served together on reusable, covered platters.

Clean aluminum foil can be recycled if formed into a large ball at least two inches in diameter.

Cups and food containers made from polystyrene foam, commonly called Styrofoam™, cannot be recycled in Boulder’s single-stream recycling. Polystyrene often enters waterways because it falls apart easily, which leads to the creation of tiny plastic fragments that poison people and wildlife.

Will your food be delivered in polystyrene foam boxes? If so, ask for substitutes, like foil wrap or reusable platters.

Ask caterers for ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise in bowls or jars instead of single-use squeeze packets, or purchase your own condiments. Likewise, supply your own sugar, salt and pepper in shakers.

Skip single-use creamers by serving milk in pitchers or recyclable cartons. Make sure to pour out any remaining liquids, rinse the inside of the carton, and replace the cap before putting milk or juice cartons in the recycling bin.

Cloth table covers can be washed and reused. Plastic and compostable covers must be trashed.

If you choose to have party favors, avoid cheap items that could be trashed by the end of the month. Try one of these ideas instead:

• Hold a prize drawing for fewer but better-quality items.

• Offer experiences like movie tickets, recreation passes or gift cards.

• Give out poker chips or marbles representing a sum of money, and ask guests to drop them into jars representing local non-profits. This supports good work, promotes discussion and builds community.