Additional Resources and Information
Definitions
Need help understanding some of the terms used on this website? Visit Definitions.
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How to Recruit Volunteers for a Zero Waste Event
Recruiting volunteers can be an integral part of the success of an event, as volunteers can assist in many of the important duties on the day of an event. However, recruiting volunteers takes time, so it is helpful to start the recruiting process well in advance of an event. Here are some tips to make volunteer recruitment more successful:
- Appoint someone to manage volunteer recruitment and coordination onsite
- Start recruiting a minimum of (2) months in advance
- Make a schedule – number of eco-stations or volunteer positions x volunteer shifts
- Plan for attrition (recruit 25-50% more people than you really need)
- Provide something tangible for their efforts: t-shirt, water bottle, free meal, etc.
- Let them know what to expect and what to bring: sunscreen, hat, water bottle, etc.
Typical Volunteer Activities
- Set-up and tear down of eco-stations
- Monitoring of eco-station (help attendees put their materials in the right place)
- Assisting with sorting activities
- Outreach and education for attendees
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Calculators
Calculators can be used to find out a variety of information, ranging from our own environmental impact on the planet, to how much of a difference we can make through recycling certain items. The following calculators can be used to determine the effects of our behaviors.
Ecological Footprint Calculators
Carbon Calculators
Carbon Dioxide is one of the primary Greenhouse Gases that is responsible for climate change. See how your activities affect the amount of carbon dioxide generated.
Water Calculators
Water is an essential part of our lives. Find out how much water you are using and what you can do to help conserve water.
Paper, Plastic and Aluminum Calculators
Learn how your use of these common materials impacts the environment.
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Case Studies
Recycling
Recycling and Composting
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Story of Stuff
This is a quick and easy to follow 20 minute video that will look at the life cycles of production and consumption in the U.S. If you have ever wondered what really goes into the things that we use in everyday life, please visit the following website: http://www.storyofstuff.com/.
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Running the Numbers
Have you ever wondered about the amount of waste generated in the U.S.? Chris Jordan’s Running the Numbers: An American Self Portrait takes this information and puts a unique twist on it by presenting the information through a series of photographs. To see his photos and find out more information, please visit his website: http://www.chrisjordan.com/
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Government Websites
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