How to Throw a Zero-Waste Event in Cleveland: The Complete Guide
Quick Read Guide
Why Host a Zero-Waste Event?
Every year, events big and small contribute tons of waste to landfills. A traditional event—whether it's a corporate meeting, wedding, or community festival—can produce thousands of pounds of garbage in a single day.
In Cleveland, the city’s Zero Waste Northeast Ohio (ZWNEO) initiative is pushing for smarter, more sustainable gatherings. Hosting a zero-waste event means you are:
Reducing landfill waste
Supporting local composting efforts
Educating your community
Setting an example for a greener Cleveland
Bottom line: It's better for the planet and for those of us who call Cleveland home.
Learn more about Cleveland’s Zero Waste goals.
Meet Rust Belt Riders: Cleveland's Composting Champions
Rust Belt Riders are local heroes when it comes to composting. Founded to "Feed People, Not Landfills," they provide residential and commercial composting solutions throughout Cuyahoga County.
For Events
Special Event Composting Service starting at $200
Two 64-gallon composting bins with certified compostable bin liners
Drop-off and pickup included
Extra bins available for $30 each
Available only in Cuyahoga County
Important: For events, all serviceware must be BPI-certified compostable. No plastic-lined or "compostable-looking" items allowed without the certification.
Interested in setting up composting for your event? Contact Rust Belt Riders directly.
What You Can (and Can't) Compost
Rust Belt Riders accepts a wide range of organic material, but contamination is a serious issue. Here’s the cheat sheet:
Compostable Items
Eaten and uneaten fruits and vegetables
Meat, seafood, and bones
Peels, rinds, pits, and skins
Pantry and dry storage items
Moldy and expired food
Coffee grounds, tea bags, and filters
Food-soiled paper (uncoated napkins, towels)
BPI-certified compostable products
NOT Compostable
Plastic cups, containers, straws
Styrofoam products
Plastic bags and wrappers
Produce stickers
Empty cardboard boxes
Large amounts of oil
Rubber bands, twist ties
Yard debris
Pro Tip: If in doubt, look for the BPI Certification logo on your products!
Green Paper Products: Compostable Essentials for Your Event
To stay 100% compostable and avoid contamination fees, you’ll want to choose serviceware that's BPI-certified.
Green Paper Products offers a complete collection of compostable items fully accepted by Rust Belt Riders, including:
We’ve even curated a special Rust Belt Riders Member Collection for easy shopping.
Note: Only residential members of Rust Belt Riders can use the discount code for Green Paper Products.
Step-by-Step: Planning Your Zero-Waste Event
Here’s your roadmap to success:
1. Book Your Composting Services
Reserve your bins early with Rust Belt Riders. Confirm bin delivery and pickup logistics.
2. Choose Certified Compostable Serviceware
Order plates, cups, utensils, and napkins from Green Paper Products’ that are BPI-certified compostable.
3. Educate Your Guests
Clear signage near bins is crucial. Remind guests what can and cannot go into the compost.
4. Set Up a Waste Monitoring Team
Assign volunteers to guide guests at waste stations, especially during busy parts of your event.
5. Minimize Packaging and Waste
Order bulk items, avoid single-serve condiments, and keep decor minimal and compostable.
6. Celebrate Your Impact!
Announce your diversion rates and environmental savings after the event. Inspire others!
Cleveland Resources for Sustainable Event Success
Ready to Host Your Zero-Waste Event?
Hosting a zero-waste event in Cleveland has never been easier. With Rust Belt Riders' composting services and Green Paper Products’ BPI-certified essentials, you can reduce your event’s environmental impact and inspire positive change in our community.
Let’s feed people, not landfills.
