Crested Butte recycling program increasing with special events

Everyone is being creative

Since the town of Crested Butte implemented a voluntary but highly encouraged recycling program for special events in town about two years ago, more than 30 tons of cardboard, and 150 cubic yards of mixed recyclables like glass and plastic has gone to the recycling center instead of the landfill.

In 2008, the town council directed the town staff to modify the special event application so that each event must include a specific plan for reducing waste and increasing recycling.
Town deputy clerk Carmen Bell is in charge of special events and she said the program has resulted in a tremendous response. “Everyone is excited to come up with their own plan and it is working,” she said. “Looking at the summers of 2009 and 2010, it is evident that those holding special events are doing a great job of incorporating recycling. This has been a great success.”
Bell said that that her office recommends that each event create its own recycling plan that is based on the unique circumstance of the event. “For instance, KBUT has offered $1 off admission to their Fish Fry for participants who bring their own plates and utensils,” she said. “The Crested Butte Farmer’s Market is working toward becoming a zero waste event. The Wildflower Festival composts all of their food wastes locally and has chosen to purchase compostable cups, plates and utensils in order to purchase renewable items from the front end and in the hopes that these items will degrade faster in the landfill than conventional products. There is currently no place locally to compost such non-food items after use.”
“Such creative ideas and or incentives are shared with other event holders who may also be able to incorporate them into their event during the application process,” she continued. “As a whole, I believe that the Town and the event holders are moving in the right direction after two special event seasons of consciously attempting to reduce waste and increase recycling.”
Josh Elmer is events coordinator for KBUT. He said when the station first came up with the idea of offering a discount for recycle-minded attendees it was a popular move. “The dollar off if you bring your own plate proved to be a big hit with those that came to the Fish Fry,” he explained. “It cut down on our overall waste, made people feel good about doing something good and saved them a buck at the same time. It was great.”
According to a memo given to the council, 18 tons of cardboard was gathered during Fat Tire Bike Week and the Bike Tour of Colorado in 2009 in the valley. In 2010, Alpenglow’s eight events collected .6 tons of cardboard and 24 cubic yards of mixed recyclables. Those mixed recyclables include aluminum, tin, plastics, brown, green and clear glass, newspaper, magazines and office paper.
“Both local trash companies have stepped it up with recycling and that’s made a big difference,” said Bell. “This is a town that obviously places a priority on things like recycling and we are seeing the benefits of that attitude. It’s great.”