Collecting recyclables at events is simple and easy. The Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County loans out ClearStream recycling collection containers FOR FREE to allow for the easy collection of recyclables at any type of event. Our event containers are perfect for festivals, church events, concerts, graduation parties, fundraisers, etc. You'll demonstrate your commitment to the environment and to your guests with just a few easy steps:

• To confirm availability of recycling containers and to aid in promotion of recycling at events, pre-registration is required at least one week prior to an event. Contact Dawn at the District, 219-465-3695 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , for a registration form or download one here.
• The District can help you advertise your public event by placing it on our Facebook page and/or website. To take advantage of this opportunity, registration for containers should be done at least two weeks in advance. We will make every effort to list your event and information.
• Your event staff or volunteers are responsible for working with a waste hauler to coordinate the pick up of recyclables after the event.
• The event is responsible for pickup and drop off of all recycling container equipment.
• Pickup of equipment must be during weekday hours at least one day prior to the event, and drop off of equipment must be during weekday hours within two days after event.
• All equipment must be returned in the same manner in which it is received.
• A $20/hour cleaning fee will be applied if District personnel are required to clean containers.
• If the containers are damaged beyond use or stolen while on loan, there will be a charge to you for replacement costs.

Here are a few things you'll want to consider to have successful recycling at your event:

• Determine who will be in charge of this recycling activity, including removing full bags and replacing the containers with new bags? Train volunteers to properly secure bags and attach lids to the frame of the recycling containers. Be sure supervisors know how to get them on/off the frames. Instruct volunteers to collect and replace bags when they are 2/3 full.
• Determine recycling goals; how much recyclables does the organization expect to collect?
• Will this be an indoor or outdoor event? If the event is outdoors, weather factors need to be considered.
• How long will your event last? The longer the event, the more bags are needed.
• What is the expected attendance? Estimate from previous year as a base.
• How does the waste hauler need the recyclables? Source separated? Commingled?
• What types of materials will be collected? Aluminum? Bottles? Both?
• How many garbage cans will be on site? One recycling container for each garbage can is optimum. Move containers to heavy traffic areas if necessary.
• Who is the waste hauler that will accept the collected materials? What type of centralized collection container will they provide?
• “Seeding,” or putting a few recyclables in each container before the event starts, is helpful.
• Keep lids clean by wiping with rags as necessary.
• Record information about the event in a notebook for future use. Were there enough containers? Enough bags? Enough volunteers?

After your event:

• Move the remaining recyclable material to the central recycling collection point/container and take down borrowed recycling containers.
• Wipe down frames and lids.
• Return recycling containers to District.

How to Promote Recycling At Your Event

• Pre- and post- event literature and press releases featuring the recycling program as well as pictures of the recycling containers.
• Reminders to recycle during the event over the P.A. system.
• Banners and informative signs.
• Include information about recycling at the event in publications, programs, ads, etc.
• Invite patrons to share their pictures or take your own pictures, report your success, submit to local papers to build recognition for your organization and its recycling program.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Recycling Container Loan Program

• How many recycling containers should I have at my event?

It is recommended to place one recycling container next to every trash container you have out. If this is not possible due to budget concerns, look to your high traffic areas. Food courts and seating areas are the most common. Next areas might be where beverages are not permitted.

• What can I do to insure the recycling containers will not blow over?

The containers are designed to stand up against most wind. However, the most common ways to secure the containers are with sandbags or tent stakes. Sandbags are more versatile. One sandbag over the top of each leg and under the bag will protect your containers from blowing over even in the windiest conditions.

• Do I have to use your bags?

We recommend using the bags we provide as leakage may occur with store bought bags. Our bags are 2-3 times stronger than bags found at your local grocery or hardware store. For recycling, a clear bag is a must, without it you will not be successful.

If the containers are damaged beyond use or stolen while on loan, there will be a charge to you for replacement costs.

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