People dispose of waste at a green waste station at an event on WashU campus.

WashU is working to make all campus events zero waste through advance planning and a specialized waste collection system. The “green waste station” approach allows us to compost and recycle up to 95% of material, significantly reducing landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions. Without these stations, we would likely capture less than 25% of the event waste.

Zero Waste is just the beginning. Take your event to the next level through a Green Event Certification. A simple checklist helps walk you through the planning process, applying a “green lens” to every step along the way.

Green Event Certification

Certify your event today, which will help you implement more sustainable practices by providing a framework and resources.

Find the Right Caterer

Here is our list of recommended event caterers to ensure that your zero-waste sustainability goals can be met event during large events.

Compostable Serviceware

Student groups can request SU-funded compostable serviceware. Not a student group? Work with your caterer and request compostable products.

Borrow Reusable Dishes

Reserve up to 40 reusable plates, bowls, cups, and utensil sets through the free loaner program that helps reduce event waste at small events.

Green Waste Stations

Order a full waste station for your event, which will allow simple, sustainable, and comprehensive sorting and waste collection!

Rent-A-Tote

For small events (<100 attendees) with all compostable products, you can rent a single 65-gallon compost collection tote.

Outdoor Hydration Stations

Event water stations eliminate the need to provide containerize water for attendees and can save money. Rentals are available for large events.

Event Composting Resources

Here are more resources on how to staff the waste stations, access the signages, and market your event sustainability efforts.

Sustainable Flowers

To find flowers for your event that are ethically and sustainably sourced, check out this page for a list of resources on sustainable floristry!

Low Impact Décor

Student Sustainability Board maintains a lending library for event décor. Discover low cost and low impact event decoration strategies.


Email sustainability@wustl.edu if you have questions, or to schedule an event composting consultation to discuss placement and appropriate number of waste stations for your event.