Event Recycle Bin Loan Program

• Estimate the number of attendees for each day of your event to better predict your waste needs. Waste generated will vary based on the event layout and activity levels; however, as a general rule, aim for at least one pair of trash and recycling bins for every 25 attendees.
• Plan to place a recycling bin next to each trash bin. Recycling bins that are not paired with trash bins often end up used as trash bins.
• For longer events and busy areas, such as food vendors and picnic spots, keep extra bags on hand to change out bins as they fill up.

• To reserve recycle bins for your event, fill out the Event Recycle Bin Loan Program request form or call 605-367-8187.

  Reservation Form

• An Environmental Division staff member will contact you soon after your request is approved to schedule a convenient time for you to pick up the event bins. Event bins are available for pick up on weekdays at the City of Sioux Falls Environmental Center (1017 E. Chambers St.).
• If you’re borrowing more than 10 event recycle bins, you may need a vehicle with extra cargo space.
• Tent stakes are also available for borrowing. Tent stakes help prevent wind gusts from knocking over the recycle bins.
• Event Recycle Bins are available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis.

Here are some tips to maximize waste diversion at your event:

• For larger events, you’ll likely want to arrange collection services with a waste hauler.
• Use tent stakes or weights at outdoor events to prevent bins from falling over due to wind gusts. Tent stakes are available to borrow from the Environmental Center.
• Follow the assembly instructions to ensure the recycle bins are stable and the bags are securely attached.
• Kick-start the recycling by adding a few empty cans or bottles into the recycle bins to show attendees that recycling is available.
• Try to empty bins when the bags are two-thirds full, as this leaves enough room to tie the bags closed.
• Hold a pre-event training session with staff or volunteers to quickly review responsibilities.

• Estimate your recycling rate by counting the trash and recycling bags collected. For example, if you end up with 10 bags of trash and 10 bags of recyclables, your recycling rate by volume is approximately 50%.
• Take notes on what worked or didn’t work so you're better prepared for your next event.
• Celebrate your recycling efforts by sharing how much material you've recycled and kept out of the landfill.
• Place trash bags and recyclable materials in the containers provided by your event hauler, clearly marked for their designated use. If you are self-hauling your materials, make sure that all bags are tightly closed before transportation.

• Wipe off any sticky residue from recycle bin lids.
• Contact the Environmental Division to give a heads-up on when you’ll be returning the borrowed bins and supplies.
• Note: Bagged or loose material is not accepted for drop-off at the Environmental Center. Recyclables should be collected by your event hauler or self-hauled to an appropriate facility. For a list of local recycling drop-off locations, visit BINinfluencers.