A Guide to Recycling at Sports Venues
Prepared by
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Region 5
January 2011
Prepared by:
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Region 5 - Materials Management Branch
For more information contact:
Briana Bill, bill.briana@epa. gov
(312)353-6646
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I. INTRODUCTION
Events held at sports venues1 generate significant quantities of recyclable materials from
a variety of different facility operations. Many of these materials can be collected and
stored on-site for pick up relatively easily and inexpensively. Other materials can be
more difficult to recycle and may require additional effort, space and cost to manage.
Recycling bin in sports arena.
In addition to conserving natural resources, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and
reducing impacts on the environment, recycling can have economic benefits. Depending
on local waste disposal and recycling market conditions, recycling can lead to a reduction
in solid waste management costs as revenue is generated from commodities such as
cardboard, paper and aluminum. Other materials such as plastic, glass and food waste
can be more challenging to manage, especially where space is limited and recycling or
composting facilities for these items are not locally available.
Other opportunities exist within sports venues to reduce waste generation, such as the use
of returnable shipping containers or reuse of incoming product or supply packaging.
Most waste reduction practices result in significant cost savings, both in material and
shipping costs as well as avoided waste management expenditures.
Nearly all sports venues built in the U.S. today are incorporating various design elements
aimed at maximizing environmental performance in terms of energy, water and resource
conservation. Environmental certification programs, such as Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED), incorporate solid waste management and recycling to
promote environmental materials reuse and recycling.2 Many sports venues are
1 The term '"sports venue" is used in this document to refer to stadiums, ballparks, arenas, sports centers,
fields, race tracks and other permanent sports facilities.
2 See http://www.usgbc.org/leed for additional information on the LEED rating system.
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establishing programs or expanding current recycling efforts as more data and
information becomes available on successful programs.
In addition, factors such as laws or ordinances requiring waste reduction and recycling
are driving the implementation of recycling programs. For example, laws in California,
North Carolina and Washington specifically target recycling at venues and events:
Local ordinances requiring recycling at venues and large events are also being considered
as municipalities target waste generation beyond households and businesses to meet
recycling goals set forth by state laws.
Finally, many fans expect recycling containers to be available, and are willing to put
extra effort into placing recyclables in their proper place. Successful programs involve
creative and consistent outreach and education so that fans are aware of the availability of
recycling containers as well as what items should or should not be placed in them .
Pl£ASE recycle
TOUR PLASTIC
CUPS & BOTTIES
IN THE
MARKED GREEN BINS.
Recycling bin with clear signage indicating acceptable materials.
A successful recycling program creates a positive public perception of both the facility as
well as the entity hosting events.
It is important to recognize that recycling involves three steps:
1. Collecting recyclable materials
2. Using recovered materials in the manufacture of new products
3. Purchasing recycled products
In order for recycling to be sustainable, in addition to collecting materials companies
must exist to utilize recyclable materials in the manufacture of new products. These
1 See California AB 2176, Washington HB 2056, and North Carolina HB 267.
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companies can exist only if consumers purchase products made from recycled feedstock.
As large purchasers and consumers of products such as paper, plastic and construction
materials, sports venues are in a unique position to support markets for recycled content
products. Only when a recycled product is purchased is the "recycling loop" completed.
.0
Beer cup made from post-consumer recycled materials.
Recycling in sports venues requires development of a tailored program that takes into
account facility infrastructure, types of events, fans, and waste streams.4 The purpose of
this guidebook is to share information on the planning, development and implementation
of stadium recycling programs. The information is based on demonstration projects and
published information on baseball, football, basketball, hockey and other sports.
Examples are provided of innovative and successful programs so that sports venues
interested in establishing or expanding recycling can benefit from practices and lessons
learned by others.
II. DEVELOPING A RECYCLING PROGRAM
The following ten steps should be followed in the design, development and
implementation of a stadium recycling program.
1) Identify Decision Makers and Stakeholders
2) Obtain Buy-In and Support
3) Designate a Recycling Coordinator
4) Conduct Site Assessment and Evaluation
5) Conduct Facility Waste Audit and Recycling Options Assessment
6) Educate and Train Staff
7) Fan Education
8) Promote Positi ve Results
9) Purchase and Use of Recycled Products
10) Measure Success
4 Final Report, EPA Venue Recycling Project NAPCOR (2008)
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1. Identify Decision Makers and Stakeholders
All sports venues are unique in terms of ownership, management, tenants, operations and
maintenance. In most cases, the facility may be owned and operated by either a public or
private entity that is entirely separate from the occupying teams or event sponsors. In
addition, many sports venues are utilized for a number of purposes other than sporting
events, such as concerts, special shows and performances.
Establishing a stadium recycling program requires strong support from the upper
management of all entities involved, including the facility owners, occupant team
franchises, special event sponsors, caterers, suppliers, vendors, janitorial and other
service providers. In addition, operations managers, floor supervisors, union stewards
and kitchen supervisors from all operational areas and shifts must be included in
preliminary discussions when recycling plans are developed and finalized, as these
individuals will be responsible for carrying out recycling operations.
Many leagues such as the National Football League, National Hockey League, Major
League Soccer, Major League Baseball and the National Basketball Association are
involved in green initiatives,5 and may be of assistance to individual team owners or
operators. Furthermore, several vending, janitorial and service contractors have
corporate environmental policies or greening initiatives available for regional and local
sales managers to leverage when working with individual facilities.
2. Obtain Buy-In and Support
It is critical that establishing a recycling program is deemed a priority by all tenants and
contractors, and that a clear message supporting recycling is sent by the owner or
operator of the facility. In some cases, it is worthwhile to establish a written policy or
statement of principles which can be shared with incoming event organizers, suppliers,
tenants or contractors so they are aware of environmental policies or practices at the
venue.
l-lloiiKMils (o Consider in l)o\ eloping ;iii l-'.n\ iroiiiiionliil Polio
• Environmental Performance
• Sustainability
• Regulatory Compliance
• Green Construction
• Water Conservation
• Energy Conservation or Alternatives
• Waste Reduction, Reuse and Recycling
• Transportation
• Environmentally Preferable Purchasing
• Greenhouse Gas Reduction
• Communications and Marketing
Figure 1. Environmental policy components.
5 See htto://www.greensports.org and http://greensportsalliance.org/ for green sports initiatives involving
the Natural Resources Defense Council and Green Sports Alliance.
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In most cases, there will be costs associated with establishing a recycling program which
must be accounted for, including:
• Signage, stickers or labels
• Public service announcements
• Dock space or storage area for equipment, sorting or staging of recyclables
• A cardboard baler, dedicated compactor, can crusher or paper shredder and
electrical service
• Recycling bins/liners for collection on concourses, vending areas or suites
• Servicing and cleaning of containers, storage areas and equipment
Vendors and Concessionaires
In many cases, existing in-house vendors or contractors already have knowledge and
capabilities for recycling and are able to offer recycling containers and/or equipment as
part of the services they provide to the facility. Though contractors may not normally be
included in discussions with stadium management regarding facility planning and
operations, they do have an understanding of facility operations and may be able to
leverage experience and resources available through their corporate offices.
Operations and Maintenance
At facilities where janitorial or maintenance services are managed by a contractor, a
contract amendment or change may be required to include recycling. In addition, labor
unions should be consulted to ensure that recycling duties are included in existing
agreements. It is important that union stewards and floor supervisors are committed and
supportive of the program to ensure continued success.
Waste Haulers
Several waste companies have recognized that attitudes about waste have changed, and
that customers are increasingly looking for recycling services, containers, equipment,
supplies and signage. In some cases, traditional waste management companies have
become more flexible and have specific programs which offer recycling services,
equipment and supplies, especially to large clients. It may be advantageous to consult
with a waste hauler during the planning process to assess the expertise and potential
resources available.
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IH
iiil
//UNITED CENTER H
ifcTjil jf3*!
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Waste hauler-provided compactor with team logos to promote recycling effort.
3. Designate a Recycling Coordinator
Many facilities have recognized the importance of integrating recycling and sustainability
issues into their daily operations. Designating a facility recycling coordinator is
important in the development, implementation and maintenance of any recycling plan.
This individual acts as a single point of contact for all recycling related projects,
programs and daily operations. Dedicating an individual to focus on recycling allows for
better oversight of the program, enhances decision making processes, and improves
communication between stadium management, tenants, staff and patrons.
Recycling coordinator responsibilities include:
• Convene meetings of key stakeholders to present and discuss recycling plans
• Develop a recycling policy
• Conduct or oversee facility assessment
• Discuss options for bins, equipment and signage
• Source, bid and purchase bins and equipment
• Seek grants or outside funding sources for recycling equipment/containers
• Coordinate and train staff
• Provide information and coordinate with incoming event managers
• Conduct patron outreach and education
• Seek opportunities for waste reduction, reuse or recycling of more materials
• Measure, document, report and communicate program results
Though the function can be incorporated into existing staff responsibili ties after the
program is up and running, it is recommended that recycling program responsibilities
remain within the job description or performance agreement of the recycling coordinator.
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4. Conduct Site Assessment and Evaluation
An important step in developing a recycling program is establishing a clear understanding
of the layout, operation, staff and job functions operating within the facility. The purpose
of conducting a preliminary facility assessment is to:
1. Understand the stadium layout and key operational areas
2. Meet maintenance staff and document current waste management procedures
3. Identify and examine any ongoing waste reduction or recycling activities
4. Document any model practices
5. Identify potential opportunities for improvement
Identification of existing infrastructure is essential when creating or improving a
recycling program. With knowledge of the materials generated and the flow of materials
through the facility, it is then possible to begin identifying areas where improvements can
be made. Figure 2 contains a checklist for conducting a preliminary assessment.
Stadium Recycling Assessment Checklist
hacilhy Description
¦ What functional areas are within the facility and where are they located?
¦ Can you provide a floor plan of the facility?
Personnel
¦ Who oversees waste management/recycling? Is it part of their job description?
¦ Is there a green team? Who serves on it and what department do they represent?
¦ Are there any other individuals that have a lead role in any part of recycling?
Waste (.eiH'i nlion and How
¦ Where are waste receptacles located and what types are used'.'
¦ Who collects waste and what is the process of handling waste (from emptying
receptacles to hauler pick-up)?
¦ Who monitors the collection process for waste?
¦ Is there a staging area? Compactor? Baler? Shredder?
¦ Who is the waste hauler and how is their contract set up?
¦ Is waste pick-up done on a regular or as-needed basis?
¦ Where does the waste go after removal? Is this a transfer station or final destination?
¦ What waste prevention measures are in place (i.e., using returnable shipping containers,
replacing individual paper towels with roll paper or hand dryers, etc.)?
Recycling Materials and How
¦ What materials are collected for recycling?
¦ Are toner cartridges, ink jet cartridges, batteries, diskettes, CDs, video/audio tapes,
computers, phone books, fluorescent tubes, or food waste recycled?
¦ How are materials collected (e.g., separate streams, co-mingled, etc.)?
¦ What type(s) of receptacles are used? Where are they located? How much did they cost?
¦ Who collects recycling materials and who monitors the process?
¦ What storage/receptacles are available for staging? Is there a compactor for recyclables?
¦ Who is the recycling hauler and is pick-up done on a regular or as-needed basis?
¦ Where do recyclables go after being picked up? Is there any further sorting?
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Metrics
¦ Does the facility track the weight of waste being removed? If so, how do you arrive at
these numbers (e.g., on-site scale, weekly/monthly reports from hauler)?
¦ How far back is data on the weight of waste being removed from the facility available?
¦ Does the facility track the weight of recycled material being removed? If so, how do you
arrive at these numbers (e.g., on-site scale, weekly/monthly reports from hauler)?
¦ How far back can you track the weight of recyclables removed?
¦ What is the stadium's annual waste removal cost and how is it broken out?
Improvements
¦ Have you already identified any opportunities for improvements in recycling?
¦ Are there any particular areas of the recycling program that you would like the
assessment team to focus on?
Figure 2. Stadium recycling assessment checklist
Most new sports venues have dedicated space for recycling equipment such as a baler or
compactor as well as storage areas for cardboard bales and staging areas for full
containers or gondolas prior to pick up. However, space is the primary limiting factor in
many facilities which were not designed for integration of recycling. Normally,
additional space is required adjacent to a loading dock or storage area on the ground floor
of the facility. In addition, an electrical connection for baling or compacting equipment
is necessary. In existing buildings, adding recycling may require additional capital costs
not only for equipment, but for the space and utilities to operate these activities.
Cardboard baler in utility room adjacent to loading dock.
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Loading dock area with multiple, separate compactors for waste and recyclables.
Establishing Baseline Measurement
Another critical component of the preliminary assessment is to establish a baseline for
existing waste management and recycling activities. This is important to conduct prior to
the development, implementation or upgrade of a recycling program so that
improvements can be measured and reported. Documenting current waste generation and
hauling and disposal costs must be done in coordination with the waste hauler, as they
normally collect data on the hauling and tonnages of wastes managed. A worksheet for
documentation of waste management and recycling costs is included in Appendix A.
It is important that key personnel involved in the operation and management of individual
areas within the stadium be consulted so that accurate and detailed information can be
documented. Many of these individuals have detailed knowledge and working
experience in stadium operations and can be excellent resources for ideas and revised
procedures to effectively incorporate recycling at the stadium.
5. Conduct Facility Waste Audit and Recycling Options Assessment
A "walk through" is conducted in order to gain an understanding of the flow of materials
through the facility as well as current solid waste and recycling handling. All areas
within the stadium that generate waste (see Figure 3) are visited during the assessment.
As mentioned above, it helps greatly to conduct the assessment with operations managers
or supervisors responsible for the areas visited.
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Major \iv;is ol'\\ ;isk* (.oiioiiilion
• Souvenir stands or stores
• Food and beverage concessions
• Food and beverage stocking / distribution closets
• Restaurants and bars
• Concourses
• Seating areas
• Kitchen or food preparation areas
• Administrative offices (including contractor spaces)
• Service areas, workshops
• Warehouses, shipping/receiving or equipment storage areas
• Locker rooms
• Press boxes and briefing rooms
• Skyboxes or luxury suites
• Parking and outside common areas
• Restrooms
Figure 3. Typical waste generating areas of a stadium.
The most common recyclable materials generated by volume within sports venues are
plastic beverage containers, aluminum cans and cardboard. The most significant waste
stream by weight is food waste. However, each operational area generates different
materials, many of which can be recovered, recycled or reused. Figure 4 identifies the
wide range of wastes generated along with strategies/options to consider when targeting
materials and assessing recycling options.
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Figure 4. Recyclable Materials Generated and Collection Strategies
('oiK'oiirsfN
kitchen
loud Preparation
Generation:
Generation:
Beverage containers, cups
-
Food wastes
Strategy:
-
Steel cans
Post event picks
-
Plastic containers
Bins
-
Shrink wrap
Incentive programs
-
Oil/grease
Strategy:
Shipping and Rriri\ inii
-
Bins
Generation:
-
Collect, consolidate, transport to staging area
Pallets
Shrink wrap
Kc-laiirant l?ar-
Plastic containers
Generation:
Paper and plastic packaging
-
Food wastes
Metal banding
-
Beverage containers (plastic, glass aluminum)
Strategy:
-
Cardboard
Reuse
-
Paper
Storage, collection, pick-up
-
Oil/grease
Strategy:
¦ Ijiiilni'ijl. Maintenance and Ground- Keeping
-
Bins
Generation:
-
Collect, consolidate, transport to staging area
Field turf/sod
Landscaping material
Sum mil
Vending
Oil, antifreeze
Generation:
Tires
-
Cardboard
Scrap metal
-
Plastic and paper packaging
Batteries
-
Paperboard
Plastic containers, bags
-
Pallets
Shop towels
-
Flangers
Pallets
Strategy:
Shrink wrap
-
Bins
Strategy:
-
Reuse
Composting
-
Collect, consolidate, transport to staging area
Reuse
Collect, consolidate, transport to staging area
Parking
TailiMte
Generalit
n:
(once—ion-
-
Beverage containers (plastic, glass and aluminum)
Generation:
-
Paper/cardboard
Cardboard and paperboard
Strategy:
Shrink wrap
-
Bins
Food wastes
-
Collection sweeps by crews
Plastic containers
-
Volunteers
Oil/grease
Lost personal items (phones, eyeglasses, etc)
Admini-lraln e ( )M'ice-
Strategy:
Generation:
Collect, consolidate, transport to staging area
-
Paper
-
Beverage containers
Sk\ l>o\c-
-
Food waste
Generation:
-
Toner cartridges
Beverage containers (plastic, glass, aluminum)
-
Batteries
Paper
-
Fluorescent lamps
Carpet
-
Cardboard
Fluorescent lamps
-
Electronic
- Food wastes
-
Carpet
Strategy:
Strategy:
Bins
-
Bins (desk side and central bins)
Cleaning crews collect, consolidate
-
Collect, consolidate, transport to staging area
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Cardboard bales staged for pickup in loading dock.
Bartender setting out a bin filled with glass bottles at end of shift.
Outdated programs and promotional printed materials staged for pick-up.
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Detailed Waste Sort / Characterization
Conducting a detailed waste sort can be important step in characterizing the overall waste
generation and identify potential recycling opportunities. Using existing data available
from stadium waste sorts can also provide useful insights into the expected waste
streams. A waste sort involves the physical collection, sorting, and weighing of a
representative sample of waste generated at a facility, which will identify and quantify
the components of the waste stream. A waste sort can focus on the facility or target
certain functional areas or departments. Guidance on how to conduct a waste sort can be
found at: http://www.epa.gov/smm/wastewise/approach.htm
Selection of Recycling Bins
The selection of recycling bins is important from the perspective of maximizing
participation, convenience and maintaining aesthetics. The following considerations
should be taken into account in selecting bins for public spaces in the venue. Bins in
administrative offices, kitchens or other employee work areas require different
considerations than bins for patrons who are not at the venue on a daily basis. A
'Recycling Bin Selection Guide' can be found in Appendix B.
Recycling bins co-located with trash cans on concourse.
6. Educate and Train Staff
Staff involvement is perhaps the most important aspect of establishing and maintaining a
successful stadium recycling program. In order for staff to be part of the effort, they must
be informed, trained and updated on recycling procedures. In addition, both operations
and administrative staff must be motivated to support and participate in the program.
Operations and Maintenance
Successful recycling within the stadium requires extensive participation and cooperation
by janitorial, maintenance and operations staff. Staff needs to know special procedures
for collecting recyclables apart from waste before, during and after an event. In many
cases, it is worthwhile to consult or elicit the participation of crews in developing a
strategy that addresses the collection, staging and storage of recyclables.
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In addition, loading dock staff must be aware that recyclables must be handled, stored
and placed in different containers for pick up. This may involve a change in established
procedures or the need for additional time required to do the same job. It is important
that all operational shifts are aware of recycling procedures. As many crews are bi-
lingual, it is important that training, signage and instructions are developed in additional
languages. Finally, ongoing training and reminders (such as posters in equipment closets
or break areas) should be provided to ensure that recycling procedures are implemented
and maintained.
^RECYCLE ONLY
IJgOAi solamenteI
1 , 'HKO
1 ^
1 RECYCLEON^^H
I solace 1
^^TYLKO_J
Multi-lingual recycling Signage placed on compactor door.
NO GLASS!
NINGUN VIDRIQ
NIE SZKLO
NO CARDBOARD!
ninguiTcarton
nie karton
Multi-lingual sign adjacent to waste compactor prohibiting recyclables.
Administrative
Full time staff in sports venues can range from a few individuals to a several hundred,
depending on whether or not team or franchise offices are housed on site. A significant
amount of recyclables can be generated by administrative staff, such as paper and
beverage containers. Administrative staff need to know where and how to recycle these
items in the office. If containers or signage are confusing or unclear, staff will not know-
where or how to recycle resulting in high contamination and lower recycling rate.
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Office recycling efforts can be reinforced with announcements or articles in newsletters,
reminders or progress reports on opening webpage, and posters in common areas such as
break rooms or copy rooms. Many offices have established policies to reduce waste by
requiring double sided copying, which can significantly reduce paper costs.
MIXED PAPER
PAPEL MIXTO
PAPIER
M1ESZANY I
Paper recycling bin adjacent to copy machine.
7. Fan Education
Fans need to be educated on why they should recycle, what they can recycled and where.
The program should be advertised through sponsors, vendors, signage, public service
announcements and team mascots. Skybox patrons can be reached via newsletters,
annual luncheons, signage on bins, advertisements on the in-house, closed circuit
television system.
Asking fans to recycle represents a behavior change, as recycling may not be second
nature to many when away from home. Successful behavioral change strategies require
an understanding of fan behavior and situational factors that can potentially limit
behavior. Some teams utilize players and in-house video capabilities to produce short
creative video clips played before, during or after the event to encourage proper use of
the recycling bins and which materials are acceptable or not acceptable.
Dual use bin with recycling on one side and trash on the other.
Once recycling bins and signage is in place, additional advertisement such as signage at
concession stands, printed messages on recyclable cups increases fan exposure to the
message. In addition, promotion of the program through use of a recycling mascot, or
give-a-ways such as t-shirts, ball caps or towels can help. Some teams create incentives
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by offering tickets in exchange for a specified number of recyclable cups collected, which
can be collected and redeemed for prizes. Whatever approach is used, sharing the credit
is important to maintain support and enthusiasm for the recycling program.
Real fans recycle
Concourse signage promoting recycling.
Philadelphia Phillies "Red Goes Green Team"
The Phillies implemented several initiatives to urge fans to get involved:
¦ Green Caps: Symbolizing their commitment, the entire Phillies team wore green baseball caps
during a game against the San Diego Padres.
¦ Red Goes Green Cards: 100 fans received a 1-year credit to secure clean renewable energy
for home consumption.
¦ Red Goes Green Team: Captained by the Phillies Ballgirls, volunteers from local colleges and
community organizations collected recyclables from the seating bowl throughout each game.
They wore wear green aprons and announcements were made pre-game for fans to look for the
green team and take part in recycling efforts.
¦ Red Goes Green Tips: Fans are invited to go to www.phillies.com/redgoesgreen for tips on
how to improve the environment. 'Red Goes Green' tips are posted on the scoreboard during
each game at Citizens Bank Park.
8. Promote Positive Results
With today's emphasis on "going green," a stadium with an effective recycling strategy
establishes positive public relations with the community while conserving natural
resources and reducing generation of green house gases. Having documentation of
recyclables diverted from landfills can aid in a promotional campaign. Various tools are
available to calculate environmental, economic and resource conservation impacts of
recycling. One tool is EPA's WARM model,6 which calculates the greenhouse gas
impacts of recycling specific materials, the results of which can be provided in the
equivalent number of cars taken off the highway for one year. Other conversions can be
developed to document and share the success of the program, such as the amount of space
saved in a landfill in terms of the stadium volume or number of trees saved by recycling
cardboard and paper. If cost savings from waste hauling and disposal or revenue
6 See http://www.epa. gov/warm for access to EPA's Waste Reduction Model (WARM).
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generated from recyclables is achieved, this is a valuable tool for stadium or franchise
management. Environmental results can be promoted each April on Earth Day or in
November on America Recycles Day.
Boston Red Sox Earth Day 2008 Celebration
To celebrate Earth Day, all players and on-field staff were dressed in special uniforms adorned with the
club's greening logo. The team received an Environmental Merit award from EPA in recognition of
their efforts to run a greener organization. The Administrator of the EPA and the Director of the Natural
Resources Defense Council threw out a joint ceremonial first pitch. Boston has been taking significant
steps to making their operations more eco-friendly at Fenway Park, including a recycling program for
plastic bottles. Over 100 recycle bins branded with the Poland Spring Green Team and Waste
Management logos have been placed throughout the ballpark.
9. Purchase and Use of Recycled Products
Sports venues consume large amounts of materials to sustain daily operations and
maintain facilities. It is important to consider the types of materials being consumed at
the facility and how these materials will affect the overall recycling strategy. Purchasing
consumer products and construction materials that both contain recycled content and are
readily recyclable benefits the recycling program. In addition, reducing the packaging of
incoming materials such as promotional items can avoid collection and disposal costs.
Consumer Products
Items such as toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, paper cups and drink and food trays are
now available with significant quantities of post-consumer recycled content. The
purchase and use of recycled paper products plays a significant role in sustaining
recycling efforts.
Aluminum cans, glass and cardboard are the most commonly collected and recycled
materials in many metropolitan areas. These products are often made from recycled
materials collected in municipal recycling programs. The use of these materials creates
and maintains a sustainable market for recyclables, thus perpetuating their continued
collection.
The single largest recycling challenge in sports venues is collection and recovery of
plastic beverage cups. Beverage cups made of polyethylene terepthalate (PETE, #1) or
high density polyethylene (HDPE, #2) are more desirable than cups made of polystyrene
(PS, #6) or polypropylene (PP, #5) cups due their greater value in the recycling markets.
It is important to check all materials being utilized in incoming food and beverage service
materials to see if they are acceptable for collection and recycling within the local
recycling infrastructure. Figure 5 provides a list of environmentally preferred materials.
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I"iiiiire5. I.ii\ irnniiK'iihil Preferable Purchasing
Preferred Material
Materials to Avoid
Polyethylene terepthalate (PETE #1)
High density polyethylene (HDPE #2)
Biodegradable Silverware
Recycled Paper
Aluminum Cans
Molded pulp paper food trays
Polystyrene (#6)
Polypropylene (#5)
Other Plastic (#7)
Plastic Silverware
No Recycled Content Paper
Several environmentally friendly food service products are now available through
vendors and contractors. These products, such as biodegradable forks/knives/spoons,
molded pulp paper food trays, or small plastic water cups may be offered at restaurants,
concessions and other food/beverage service areas. In many cases, these items are
neither recyclable nor compostable, as few commercial composting facilities are locally
available which accept these items. For example, biodegradable water cups are not
acceptable in most plastic cup recycling programs, and may only become contaminants in
recycling containers. It is important to check with recycling and composting service
providers to ensure that these materials will not become contamination in recycling
containers. Contamination will significantly raise processing costs as loads may require
manual separation to remove contaminants, or rejection and subsequent land filling of the
entire load.
Construction Materials
A wide variety of construction products made from recycled materials can be utilized in
offices, seating and concession areas. EPA and many states maintain lists of recycled
content construction products, many of which are locally available.7
li»ure ( onslruction M;iu*ri;ils willi Reocled ( omen!
Structural Steel - superstructure
Aluminum - siding, facade, containers, concession tables
Plastic Lumber - seating, decking, railings, ramps
Ceiling Tiles - offices, skyboxes
Carpet Squares - offices, skyboxes
Paving materials - concourses, parking lots, pedestrian walkways
Concrete w/ Fly Ash - superstructure
10. Measure Success
Establishing Metrics
The success of waste reduction and recycling is determined by comparing recycling rates
and waste volumes before the implementation of a recycling program to those after the
program has been in place for a set period of time. It is important that this information be
documented consistently over the course of the year or season and reported so that trends
can be analyzed and evaluated for purposes of making improvements.
7 See http://www.epa. gov/cpg for a list of recycled content products available in the U.S.
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Obtaining a complete understanding of existing collection and disposal costs requires
access to data from the waste hauler, concessionaires and vendors. A baseline for waste
figures can be arrived at using the 'Public Venue Waste Management and Recycling Cost
Worksheet' in Appendix A.
Waste Hauler Data
Some waste haulers are unwilling to provide data as they consider this information
proprietary. It is essential in determining the success of a program to know the amount of
material that is being diverted from the waste stream and into the recycling stream.
Acquiring the tonnages of both waste and recycled materials from the designated waste
hauler is a critical step in this process. Waste and recycling tonnages should be tracked
monthly (even in the off season) and evaluated annually to track program
implementation. Prior to program implementation, it is important to quantify the amount
of both waste collected and recyclables collected. This data serves as a baseline for
comparison to future weights and volumes. Waste contractors may charge for hauling in
several different ways (see Figure 7).
Figure 7. Waste Contractor Hauling Fee Structures
Flat Fee - Rate remains constant over contract period despite variability in
amount of waste generated.
Weight or Volume - Rate is based on the amount (tonnage or yardage) of
waste removed.
Fee per pull - A fee is paid each time waste is picked up from the facility.
Vendor and Concessionaire Data
Normally, food and vending operations are controlled by contractors whom have detailed
knowledge of all materials handled. Data can be obtained from the concessionaires and
vendors which is useful in determining flow of materials (such as cups, beverage
containers, cardboard, pallets, etc.) through the facility. Some questions which can be
posed to vendors and concessionaires are included in Figure 8.
Figure 8. Questions for Concessionaires / Vendors
1. How many events do you prepare for each year (include small group sale parties)?
2. Do you have an estimate of the total amount distributed for the season or an average per event
(both food servings and serving containers)?
3. What type of utensils, plates, etc. do you provide for patrons (i.e., polystyrene forks, knives,
spoons, polyethylene plates, polyethylene cups, etc.)?
4. What efforts have been made to use recycled materials or recycle materials from the waste
stream? Who is the recycler?
5. For the pre- and post- preparation of events, estimate the amount of paper (waxed and un-
waxed), other packaging (i.e., foil, napkins) and food waste disposed of in the trash (either
estimate per event or whole season). For instance, on average how many containers are filled per
event, or trash bags generated from clean up?
6. What do you do with the plastic packaging and cardboard generated from unpacking food items
for preparation and customer use?
7. How many beverage containers do you distribute per event (includes beer, soda, coffee cups)?
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This information can be used to estimate the quantity of recyclables to be generated and
subsequently targeted for collection. In addition, many food service contractors conduct
detailed inventories of both sold and unsold beverage and food/beverage items following
each event. This is an ideal time for separation and recovery of recyclable containers and
food items which can either be composted or donated to a local food pantry.
Programmatic Cost Data
Finally, program costs such as advertising, signage, bins, staff time, bags, equipment, and
maintenance/cleaning should be documented. This information can be consolidated and
presented to stadium management each year to demonstrate program costs and success.
III. CASE STUDIES
CONCOURSES
Facility: Soldier Field Location: Chicago, IL
Type: Football, Special Events Capacity: 61,500
Soldier Field utilizes clear recycling bins on concourses for plastic cups which reduce
contamination because patrons can see items inside. Bins are strategically placed near
garbage cans and near bathroom entrances, but away from concession/condiment
dispenser areas, which are a source of contaminants, such as condiment packets
Aluminum cans are collected in bags at the point of sale by vendors, immediately after
the cans are emptied into plastic cups. The cans are taken to 'vending closets,' staged in
gondolas, and taken to the loading dock where they are loaded into a separate compactor
for aluminum only. Cardboard is taken via gondola to a storage room where it is baled.
Contact: Michael Orion, 312-235-7153, mortman%soldierfield.net
Facility: Verizon Wireless Arena Location: Manchester, NH
Type: Hockey, Special Events Capacity: 11,140
Verizon Wireless Arena focuses on the collection of cardboard and PET plastic bottles.
Speci al recycling bins in the shape of plastic bottles to help patrons between the recycling
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and garbage bins. During events, patrons are instructed through public service
announcements to place plastic bottles into the bins. The arena captures nearly 90% of
the plastic bottles generated within the stadium. Cardboard is deposited into a compactor
by custodial staff and represents about 15% of the total disposable waste generated
during events and normal operations.
Contact: John Ayres, 603-644-5000 ext. 6005, jayres{a)verizonwirelessarena.com
SEATING AREAS
Facility: U.S. Cellular Field
Type: Baseball
Location: Chicago, IL
Capacity: 47,098
The White Sox "Hit for the Cycle" Recycle program utilizes fans to assist in collecting as
many plastic cups as possible. In addition to the collection of cups during a bowl sweep
by a crew of stadium workers, fans are challenged to collect plastic cups from the seating
area. Cups are brought to a designated area where they are exchanged for tickets which
can be redeemed for prizes.
BOOTH LOCATED
; PLATE ON THE
JRSE REDEMPTION
5 AT THE START Of
HIT FOR THE CYCLE
RECYCLE
Every cup
in lb® ballpark
Is recyclable
The program uses public announcements to advertise to fans over the big screen, and
players encourage patrons to "Pitch In" while explaining the program. U.S. Cellular
Field estimates an over 50% recovery rate of plastic cups and bottles.
Contact: Mike Pfeiffer, 312-674-5515, mpfeifjer a chisox.com
Facility: Coors Field
Type: Baseball
Location: Denver, CO
Capacity: 50,445
Coors field uses a crew of twelve pickers to walk the rows of the stadium collecting
plastic bottles and large trash items using a two bag technique. Pickers walk the rows
placing plastic bottles into clear plastic bags while putting the larger non-recyclable items
such as trays, cups, paper/plastic litter material into a black plastic bag. As the bags are
filled, pickers tie off the bags and leave them for collection crew to handle. As the
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pickers finish the initial "pick" and bags are removed, a secondary crew follows pickers
with leaf blowers pushing litter down rows to aisles where it is bagged for disposal.
Contact: Justin Bishop, 303-312-2004, bishop-justin@aramark.com
SKYBOX
Facility: Candlestick Park
Type: Football
Location: San Francisco, CA
Capacity: 70,207
Candlestick Park developed and instituted a comprehensive recycling program
incorporating the use of janitorial contracting services as the primary entity for
implementing the program. Each suite is equipped with two 'Slim-Jim' cans, one for
recyclables (colored blue) and the other for garbage. After each game, custodial crews
remove all food waste left from catering and empty it into a 32 gallon organics bin. The
next day, crews re-enter the suites to remove the garbage and recyclables from
containers. Recyclables are taken to an area for separation by commodity. Trash is taken
to a sorting area where organic material and recyclables are removed. Since 2003,
Candlestick Park has increased its solid waste diversion rate to about 48%.
Contact: Michael Gay, 415-467-1995, Michael.gay@sfgov.org
Facility: Heinz Field Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Type: Football Capacity: 65,050
The facility developed an intensive recycling plan involving placement of recycling
containers at entrances, cardboard collection, and recycling behind vendor counters. In
addition, each suite is equipped with a blue recycling bin located next to a trash can.
Suite owners and participants are instructed to place all plastic cups, aluminum cans,
plastic bottles and glass bottles into the recycling bin. After the game, cleaning crews
remove the recyclables to a gondola and take them to a 30 yard recycling compactor at
the loading dock. The City of Pittsburgh Recycling Division supported a consultant to
work with facility management to secure funding for containers and implementation
support. The Steelers and Heinz Field committed to be a full partner in the effort and
provide airtime on the Jumbo-Tron as well as a player to serve as a spokesperson. These
efforts have contributed to Heinz Field recycling 6-7 tons of material per NFL game.
Contact: Dan Zuber, 412-697-7131, cpsheinzfield@centralpropertyservice.com
Premium beverages such as beer, wine and specialty drinks sold in glass bottles are
poured into cups by concession staff and empty bottles are placed in 60 gallon bin carts.
FOOD VENDORS
Facility: United Center
Type: Basketball, Hockey, Special Events
Location: Chicago, IL
Capacity: 20,500
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The carts are set outside the concession stand after the event and are transported to the
loading dock where they are emptied into a truck destined for a sorting facility. In
addition, before an event, vendors set cardboard out on concourses for collection by
crews which conduct a pre-game sweep through all concourses to break down, transport
and bale it for pick up at the loading dock.
Contact: Jim Koehler, 312-455-4501, jkoehler%tmitedcenter.com
Facility: Busch Stadium Location: St. Louis, MO
Type: Baseball Capacity: 43,975
At Busch stadium, each concession stand is equipped with 40 gallon recycling bins
designated for aluminum cans. Vending staff are instructed to place empty aluminum
cans into the bin and break down all cardboard boxes. This effort allowed Busch stadium
to recycle 23.7 tons of aluminum during the 2008 season. Furthermore, Busch Stadium
had enlisted a team of volunteers to educate fans about the sports venues recycling
program and collect recyclables from fans during the game. Wearing green vest, these
volunteers walk through the aisles during game breaks to collected recyclables from
seated fans. The volunteers collect plastic bottles, plastic cups 1-7, and clean food trays.
Contact: Hosei Maruyama, 314-345-9404, hmaruyama^stlcardinals.com
SHIPPING AND RECEIVING
Facility: Safeco Field Location: Seattle, WA
Type: Baseball Capacity: 47,116
Safeco Field primarily generates cardboard, pallets and shrink wrap from shipping and
receiving. Cardboard is separated and placed into a compactor by custodial staff at the
end of every event. Reusable shipping containers are returned to the vendor while
wooden pallets are collected by a third party haul er for reuse. Broken pallets are placed
in the organics recycling bin along with the yard clippings and food waste for
composting. Shrink wrap generated from shipping containers is occasionally recycled.
These efforts have helped Safeco Field compost 67 tons of organic material and recycle
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157 tons of paper and cardboard during 2008. Overall, Safeco Field saved $36,000 is
avoided disposal cost as a result of recycling efforts.
Contact: Scott Jenkins, 206-346-4021, sjenkins@mariners.com
PARKING / TATLGATF
Qualcomm Stadium has the second largest parking lot in the NFL, covering 166 acres
with 18,500 parking spaces. To encourage recycling among tailgating fans, more than
350 recycling bins are located in sidewalk areas surrounding lots, near turnstiles, light
posts and garbage cans. Plastic, aluminum and glass bottles are collected. Volunteers
from Urban Corps of San Diego County, a nonprofit organization working to educate and
train at-risk youth, collect recyclables using golf carts towing open-well trailers. Side-
loader recycling trucks empty bins, and then haul materials to a local recycling facility.
The recycler provides monthly reports indicating the weight of materials recycled, and
Urban Corps retains money generated to fund programs. Recycling revenues in 2006
o
were about $10,000. The use of community groups to assist in recycling efforts
enhances the public image for both the team and the stadium.
Contact: Erik Stover, 619-641-3102, estover@sandiego.gov
Facility: Gillette Stadium Location: Foxborough, MA
Type: Football Capacity: 68,756
Gillette Stadium contracts with a local non-profit group to organize and operate tailgate
recycling efforts. A crew of 25 people arrives five hours before kick-off for a training
and logistics meeting. Staff members are given translucent recycling bags and assigned a
parking lot entrance. As fans enter the parking lots, they are handed a bag for their
recyclables and instructed to leave bags by their cars for collection. If the traffic flow is
too great, staff will withdraw from the gate strategy and begin walking around the
parking lot distributing bags to fans. Bags are collected during the game and taken to a
central location for collection by the stadium recycler. Furthermore, Gillette Stadium
strategically places recycling bins outside the stadium for fans to deposit the bottles and
cans carried from the tailgate area to the stadium.
Contact: Kelly Heard, 508-549-0148, kellyh@partiots.com
8 See http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/rogo/documents/aual508.pdf for this EPA Recycle on the
Go (ROGO) success story.
Facility: Qualcomm Stadium
Type: Football
Location: San Diego, CA
Capacity: 71,294
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JANITORIAL AND MAINTENANCE
Facility: Lincoln Financial Field Location: Philadelphia, PA
Type: Football Capacity: 68,532
The Philadelphia Eagles have an in-house project manager in charge of drafting the
Request for Proposals (RFP) for all of the contracted work at Lincoln financial field. The
last page of the RFP requests the bidding contractors to research eco-friendly substitutes
to traditional material. As a result, the Eagles have employed the use of low VOC paint,
carpet containing 10-15% recycled plastic, concentrate eco-friendly cleaning materials
and toilet paper containing 100% recycled paper.
Contact: Dave Durenberger, 267-570-4092, duernberger@eagles.nfl.com
KTTCHEN AND RESTAURANTS
Facility: PETCO Park Location: San Diego, CA
Type: Baseball Capacity: 42,445
PECTO Park implements a recycling program to collect traditional recyclables and
organics. The process for collecting organics requires food preparation staff to discard all
organic waste into green 35 gallon bins. As the containers are filled, the bins are
removed to a trash-sorting area and placed on a hydraulic lift to be emptied into a 10-ton
capacity compactor. The bins are then taken to a washing station where residual organic
material is removed and the bins are returned to their staging area. Similar to the
organics process, traditional materials such as metal, glass and plastics are placed into
large blue recycling bins strategically placed throughout the food prep areas and emptied
into a commingled compactor. As a result, PETCO Park was able to recycle 153 tons of
organics and 85 tons of commingled recyclables during the 2008 baseball season.
Contact: Alina Aguilar, 619-795-5700, aaguilar@padres.com
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
Facility: Lambeau Field Location: Green Bay, WI
Type: Football Capacity: 72,928
All administrative offices are equipped with blue recycling bins for paper collection,
while co-mingled recycling bins for aluminum cans, plastics and glass are located in high
traffic areas throughout offices. Employee break-rooms are equipped with fountain drink
stands and water coolers to reduce the number of plastic bottles and cans generated. Staff
is also continually trained and education about the recycling program through flyers,
monthly meetings and postings on an Intranet site. Furthermore, the Packers work
closely with janitorial and office supply vendors to purchase supplies that contain
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recycled content and/or are environmentally friendly. In 2007, Lambeau Field recycled
over 159,000 pounds of paper, plastic, glass, and cardboard.
Contact: Aaron Popkey, 920-569-7211, popkeya@packers.com
SPECIAL EVENTS
Facility: U.S. Pro Bowl, Aloha Stadium
Type: Football
Location: Aiea, HI
Capacity: 50,000
U.S. EPA and the NFL teamed up with tailgating fans to collect more than 17,500 "HI-5"
labeled bottles and cans in the parking lot areas of Aloha Stadium at the 2007 Pro Bowl.
The Boys and Girls Club of Hawaii and Honolulu Recovery Systems collected the
recyclables. Community Energy, a green energy marketer and developer, matched the
revenue generated, resulting in a contribution of $1,740 to the Boys and Girls Club of
Hawaii.
Contact: MarcMowrey, 415-972-3324, mowrey.marc@epa.gov
Facility: Rose Bowl Location: Pasadena, CA
Type: Football Capacity: 92,542
The Rose Bowl Stadium, in coordination with the Los Angeles Conservation Corps and
SCS Engineers, recycled over 6 tons of material during the 2008 Rose Bowl game.
Recycling strategies within the stadium included pre-event training for all
vendors/concessionaires, placement of recycling containers throughout the concourse
area and performing a post-game bowl pick. Recycling events outside the stadium
included offering recycling assistance to pre-event parties and providing recycling bags
to tailgaters. These recycling efforts allowed the Rose Bowl to recover approximately
21,000 cans, 51,000 plastic bottles, 9,000 glass bottles, and over 2 tons of cardboard. The
plastic bottle recovery increased by over 60% from the recycling effort in 2007.
Contact: Julie Benavidez, 626-577-3206, jbenavidez@rosebowlstadium.com
Citi Field, hosted its first game in 2009. It features recycled steel beams (95% of 12,500
tons of structural steel used was made from recycled steel). In order to save CO2
emissions, landfill space, and energy, over 2 million pounds of a coal combustion by-
product such as fly ash, were mixed into concrete. Approximately 25,000 square feet of
planted space around the plaza was designed to control the flow of storm water runoff.
Bike racks are strategically placed around the facility to support alternative modes of
transportation. Waterless urinals will be utilized to conserve water. A light bulb
CONSTRUCTION
Facility: Citi Field
Type: Baseball
Location: New York, NY
Capacity: 45,000
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recycling program to reduce the environment's exposure to mercury contained in
fluorescent light bulbs.
Contact: Eric Saretsky, 718-559-3169, EricS@sterl.com
Facility: Nationals Park Location: Washington, DC
Type: Baseball Capacity: 41,888
The home of the Washington Nationals was the first U.S. stadium to achieve a Silver
rating under the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED rating system. The ballpark
features numerous environmentally-friendly elements, including high efficiency lighting,
low VOC emitting finishes, recycled materials and low-flow plumbing fixtures. A 6300
ft2 green roof covered with plants helps absorb rainwater and a storm water filtration
system reduces potentially contaminated runoff to the nearby Anacostia River. State of
the art mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems ensure that all systems run at their
most efficient, saving energy and money. The project relied heavily on recycled
materials, and during construction, more than 80% of construction waste was diverted
from landfills.
Contact: Matt Blush, matt. blush@nationals. com
FAN EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
Facility: Citizens Bank Park Location: Philadelphia, PA
Type: Baseball Capacity: 43,647
The Philadelphia Phillies along with Aramark and Global Spectrum created the "Red
Goes Green Team" to promote the stadium's greening efforts. The Red Goes Green
effort focuses on improving energy efficiency, reducing the stadium's carbon footprint
and increasing recycling at the stadium. One of the many focuses of the Red Goes Green
campaign is to improve fan awareness and increase participation in the stadium's
recycling program. The Phillies use public announcements and the Phillies Ballgirls to
educate fans about the stadium's recycling program during the game. Furthermore, the
Red Goes Green Team has Phil the Recycling Robot to help educate children about the
importance of recycling. During the 2008 Season, the Phillies were able to recycle 3-4
tons of cardboard per game and 1.75 tons of commingled material per game.
Contact: DeborahRinaldi, 215-218-5391, drinaldi@phillies.com
Facility: Minute Maid Park Location: Houston, TX
Type: Baseball Capacity: 40,950
The Houston Astros and Minute Maid Park launched the "Play Green" campaigned
aimed at increasing fan education and awareness about green initiatives that fans can
participate in at the ballpark and at home. On Earth Day 2008, Minute Maid Park hosted
a green expo before and after the game to educate fans about various environmental
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initiatives occurring within their community. The Houston Astros wore special green hats
with the play green logo which were autographed for auction after the game. Every
Tuesday home game during the 2008 season, the Houston Astros hosted an
environmental organization and made public announcements during the game to alert
fans of green activities occurring during the game. The Astros have placed 125 recycling
bins throughout the stadium for fans to recycle plastic aluminum and cardboard. Overall,
the recycling efforts and green awareness allowed the Houston Astros and Minute Maid
Park to recycle over 180 tons of material during the 2008 season.
Contact: Marty Price, 713-259-8952, mprice@astros.com
IV. AVAILABLE RESOURCES
A. Funding
The following sites provide information on state, local and/or industry funding sources
which may be available to fund the establishment of stadium recycling programs.
http ://www. epa. gov/epaoswer/non-hw/recvcle/i tr/state/index.htm
B. Bins and equipment sources, vendors
The following links provide information on the many different manufacturers of
recycling bins and equipment available.
http://www.mchenrv.edu/recvcling/recvclingcontainerdirectory.pdf
C. Useful Recycling Links
The following links contain valuable information on recycling in general as well as
recycling at sports venues.
http ://www. nrdc. org/ greenbusiness/ guides/ sports/
http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/reduce/wstewise/pubs/howtopdf.pdf
http://www.epa.gov/msw/pubs/bus-guid.htm
http://www.napcor.com/pdf/SingleServeToolkit.pdf
http://www.greensports.org
http://www.besmart.org/publicplacerecvcling/sporting-venues/pagel-sporting.html
http://www.eurekarecvcling.org/bg event rec.cfm
D. Professional Associations
https://www.greensportsalliance.org
http://www.stadiummanagers.org/
http://www.iaam.org
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E. Tools and Calculators
The following links contain useful tools and calculators for estimating the impact on
recycling efforts are sports venues.
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wvcd/waste/calculatorsAVarm home.html
http://www.epa.gov/waste/conserve/rrr/rmd/econres.htm
http://earth91 l.org/
http ://www. epa. gov/recvcleonthego/
F. Green Venues Checklists or Certification Programs
The following links contain check lists and examples of certification programs.
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dleg/Green Venues Self-Assessment Checklist -
Fillable Form 304171 7.pdf
http://www.crra.com/vserc/index.html
http://www.usgbc.org/DisplavPage.aspx?CategoryID=19
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Appendix A. Public Venue Waste Management and Recycling Cost Worksheet
This worksheet is designed to help perform a "back of the envelope" calculation of the waste management
and recycling costs at venues.
On-Site Trash Collection Labor
Personnel Hours (list separately):
(1) List individual personnel and regular hours for each per week.
(2) List individual personnel and overtime hours for each per week.
(3) Annualize number of regular and overtime hours for individual personnel (keep hour categories
separate for tracking purposes).
Define Hourly Personnel Rates:
(1) List individual personnel comprehensive regular hourly rates (wages plus 1.3 overhead factor).
(2) List individual personnel overtime hourly rates (time and a half).
(3) Keep regular and overtime hourly rates for individual personnel separate for tracking purposes.
Calculate Annual Trash Collection Labor Cost (Hours x Rates):
(1) Multiply annual regular individual personnel hours by their comprehensive regular hourly rates.
(2) Multiply any annual overtime individual personnel hours by their overtime hourly rates.
(3) Combine the annual regular and overtime cost totals for each person, then combine personnel totals.
Add Trash Maintenance Contractor Cost:
(1) List any contractor service fees (weekly, monthly) associated with on-site trash collection.
(2) Annualize contractor service fees by multiplying service payments by # mo/yr service provided.
Annual Trash Equipment Cost:
(1) List all equipment used in trash handling (e.g., receptacles, carts, dumpsters, compactors, vehicles).
(2) List total purchase price for each equipment type (e.g., number of receptacles x $ ea = $ ).
(3) For each equipment category type, divide the total purchase price by the estimated number of useful life
years to determine the estimated annualized cost.
(4) For each applicable equipment category type, list the estimated annual operation and maintenance cost
(e.g., vehicle service fees, fuel, other).
(5) For rented equipment, list contract dollar amount and rental time period, and annualize the expense.
(6) Add the estimated annualized equipment cost to the annual O & M cost and rental cost for each
equipment category to determine the estimated annual trash equipment cost.
Annual Off-Site Trash Hauling Service Fee:
(1) Determine type of off-site trash hauling service and annualize the total. Alternatives include:
(a) Flat Fee Basis: Constant hauling rate charged for a specific period of time, regardless of
fluctuations in waste generated.
(b) Weight or Volume Basis: Fee charged based on weight or volume of waste generated (e.g.,
$/ton or cubic yard).
(c) Per Pull Basis: Fee charged each time waste is picked up from site.
Cost Associated with Off-Site Trash Hauling by In-House Personnel:
(1) Determine if there is any in-house staff delivery of trash to a disposal facility.
(2) If so, separately document annual labor costs specifically associated with such activities.
(3) Document any specific additional annual vehicles expenses (e.g., purchase, lease, operations and
maintenance costs) associated with such activities.
Annual Trash Disposal Fee and Tonnage:
(1) Determine how much is being charged for trash disposal at the disposal facility and disposal frequency.
(2) Annualize the trash disposal fee based on the tipping rate (e.g., $ per ton) and quantity of trash disposed
of at the disposal facility.
(3) Separately list the annual tons of trash sent to the disposal facility.
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On-Site Recycling Collection Labor Cost
Personnel Hours (list separately):
(1) List individual personnel and regular hours for each per week.
(2) List individual personnel and overtime hours for each per week.
(3) Annualize number of regular and overtime hours for individual personnel (keep hour categories
separate for tracking purposes).
Define Hourly Personnel Rates:
(1) List individual personnel comprehensive regular hourly rates (wages plus 1.3 overhead factor).
(2) List individual personnel overtime hourly rates (time and a half).
(3) Keep regular and overtime hourly rates for individual personnel separate for tracking purposes.
Calculate Annual Recycling Collection Labor Cost (Hours x Rates):
(1) Multiply annual regular individual personnel hours by their comprehensive regular hourly rates.
(2) Multiply any annual overtime individual personnel hours by their overtime hourly rates.
(3) Combine the annual regular and overtime cost totals for each person, then combine personnel totals.
Add any Recycling Contractor Cost:
(1) List any contractor service fees (weekly, monthly) associated with on-site recycling collection.
(2) Annualize contractor service fees by multiplying service payments by the # of mo/yr service provided.
Annual Recycling Equipment Cost:
(1) List all equipment used in your recycling program (e.g., bins, carts, dumpsters, balers, pickup vehicles).
(2) List the total purchase price for each equipment category type (e.g., number of bins x $ ea = $ ).
(3) For each equipment category type, divide total purchase price by estimated number of useful life years
to determine the estimated annualized cost for each.
(4) For each equipment category type, estimate annual operation and maintenance cost (e.g., vehicle service
fees, fuel, other).
(5) For rented equipment, note contract dollar amount and rental time period, and annualize the expense.
(6) Add the estimated annualized equipment cost to the annual O & M cost and rental cost for each
equipment category to determine the estimated annual recycling equipment cost.
Recycling Program Promotion/Administration Cost:
(1) List all costs associated current and/or planned public outreach/awareness/management efforts.
Examples: Outside professionals, staff training, advertising, program administration.
(2) Annualize recycling promotion/management costs on a separate line item basis (for tracking purposes).
Annual Off-Site Recycling Hauling Cost:
(1) Determine the type of off-site recycling hauling service and annualize the total for worksheet purposes.
Alternatives include:
(a) Flat Fee Basis: Constant hauling rate charged for a specific period of time, regardless of
fluctuations in recyclables generated.
(b) Weight or Volume Basis: Fee charged based on the weight or volume of recyclables generated
(e.g., $/ton or cubic yard).
(c) Per Pull Basis: Fee charged each time recyclables are picked up from site.
Cost Associated with Off-Site Recyclables Hauling by In-House Personnel:
(1) Determine if there is any in-house staff delivery of recyclables to a processing facility.
(2) If so, separately document annual labor costs specifically associated with such activities.
(3) Separately document any additional annual vehicle expenses (e.g., purchase, lease, operations and
maintenance costs) specifically associated with such activities.
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Annual Recycling Revenues and Tonnage:
(1) Determine how much revenue is received by the public venue for recyclable material sales. List each
material type separately and the accounting time period (e.g., weekly, monthly).
(2) Annualize revenue received for each material type based on the # of weeks/months venue is in
operation, and total each material type to determine the annual recycling revenues.
(3) Document how much material tonnage is associated with each material type recycled (i.e., whether or
not revenue is received) on an annual basis and combine the material type categories to determine the
annual tonnage of recyclable materials.
Estimate Avoided Disposal Cost:
(1) Add the total cost associated with on-site waste collection, off-site waste hauling, and waste disposal.
(2) Take this combined total waste management cost number and divide it by the total annual tons of waste
disposed to determine the program cost per ton of waste handled during the year.
(3) Multiply calculated annual tons of recyclables diverted from disposal by the $/ton associated with waste
management to determine the estimated avoided cost of waste management due to recycling.
Simplified Example: Assume $1,000 total waste management cost, divided by 100 tons of waste generated,
equals $10/ton of waste managed. Next, assume 50 tons of materials recycled (diverted from disposal),
multiplied by $10/ton of waste managed, equals a $500 diversion savings (not taking into consideration the
recycling costs/revenues).
Total Waste Management and Recycling Program Cost
A more accurate picture of the total waste management and recycling program costs at your public venue,
including any possible savings associated with recycling, may be estimated as follows:
Determine Annual Trash Management Cost:
(1) Add total annual cost of on-site waste collection, off-site waste hauling, and waste disposal.
(2) Take the combined waste management number and divide it by the total annual tons of waste disposed
to determine the annual program cost per ton of waste generated.
Determine Annual Recycling Program Net Cost
(3) Next, separately add the total annual cost associated with on-site recycling collection, off-site recycling
hauling, and subtract the total annual revenue received from the sale of recyclables.
(4) Take this combined recycling program cost/revenue number and divide it by the total annual tons of
recyclables diverted from disposal to determine the cost per ton associated with the recyclables handled
during the year.
Compare $/Ton Difference between Trash Management and Recycling Programs
(5) Take the $/ton value associated with the trash management program and subtract it from the $/ton
value associated with the recycling program. Then multiply this $/ton difference by the total tons of
materials recycled during the year to determine the estimated cost savings (or added expense, if the
recycling program has a higher $/ton value) associated with recycling.
Simplified Example: Assume $1,000 total waste management cost, divided by 100 tons of waste generated,
equals $10/ton of waste managed. Next, assume $300 total gross recycling program cost, less $50 from
materials sales, equals $250 total net recycling program cost. Divide $250 by an assumed 50 tons of
materials recycled (diverted from disposal), equals $5/ton for the recycling program. Subtract $5/ton for
recycling from $10/ton for waste management (i.e., $10/ton less $5/ton) to determine a $5/ton program
savings associated with the recycling tonnage (diverted from disposal). Multiply the $5 savings by 50 tons
of recyclables to determine a $250 program savings (taking into consideration recycling program
expenses/revenues).
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Appendix B. Recycling Bin Selection Guide
A. Materials to Collect
• Talk to your hauler and local recycling officials about whether local
ordinances require collecting certain materials and what materials are
recyclable locally.
• Ask your hauler how they want to receive the materials and what price you
will be paid if they are co-mingled. If they take plastic bottles, aluminum
cans and glass bottles mixed, collect them together. If you anticipate a high
level of aluminum cans, however, check to see if you could get a higher
return by collecting them separately, even if you need to deliver them
yourself or hire a separate hauler. (The same applies for newspapers, mixed
paper and office paper.)
B. Bin Type and Signage
• Recycling bins should look different from trash cans.
• Recycling bin lids should only allow the recyclables to enter. Keep in mind
that recycling bins with flat tops sometimes get trash placed on them, so
consider getting recycling bins with the opening on the side or sloped lids.
Avoiding flat tops is more important in venues where the trash and recycling
bins are not emptied until an event is over, leading to a possible overflow.
• Containers should have enough room in highly visible areas to clearly indicate
what can be recycled, using both graphics and words. Anticipate people's
misguided actions. If only the word "Plastic" appears above an opening in the
container, people are likely to put their plastic sandwich bags and other
plastic, which may contaminate the plastic bottles.
• Place signage above the bins so they can be seen from a distance.
• Clearly label trash cans.
C. Bin Placement
• Place a trash can next to each recycling bin, and make sure it doesn't get
moved. This argues for having the trash collection integrated into the
recycling bin, so they cannot be separated. Otherwise you are likely to have
very high rates of contamination.
• Distribute the bins throughout the stadium concourses, placing more in high-
traffic (i.e., near bathroom entrances) and food service areas.
D. Liners
• Clear liners allow custodial staff to spot contamination, and possibly to collect
bags of trash and recyclables together and separate at the loading dock.
• Consider whether large amounts of glass will be recycled. Bins that receive high
levels of glass may need thicker liners (greater than 1.5 mil) than those that
receive little glass.
E. Monitor and Track Recyclables
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• Assign a staff person to carefully monitor the recycling and trash bins for
contamination, particularly at the beginning of the program.
• Empty trash and recycling bins frequently. Overflowing trash cans will result in
people throwing trash in recycling bins.
• Ask your hauler or recycling processor to provide you with reports on amounts of
each material recycled and the contamination rates of each, so you can make
changes to your program if necessary and track your progress.
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