Guide for Zero Waste Function

Social functions such as weddings and birthday parties are of special significance to the people but result in huge waste generation causing environmental damage. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to promote zero waste functions which are also reflected under Swacch Survekshan-23 with increased marks from 2% to 5% (under SLP). In this regard, we have developed an SOP for zero waste function serving as a guide for the ULB.

These components are elaborated below:

1. IEC

• Putting posters on display for providing information on zero waste function, single-use plastic ban, hazards of plastic, importance of segregation, harms of food wastage, hazards of firecrackers etc.
• Providing Signage boards for the dustbins and toilets

2. Capacity Building

• Capacity building of the staff about the importance of waste management, types of waste, on-site composting etc.

3. Providing the alternatives to plasti

• Making natural decorations without the use of balloons and plastic items
• Using steel/ glass utensils (plate, bowl, jar, cutleries etc.) instead of plastic disposables
• Installing water dispenser instead of plastic bottles

4. Ensuring segregated waste collection

• Provision of separate dustbins for dry waste and wet waste at the appropriate distance and locations

5. On-site composting

• On-site composting of the wasted food which can be used as manure for own garden

6. Providing economic incentivization

• Provision of economic incentives such as tax rebate and discounts to the marriage halls conducting zero waste function

7. Other supporting measures

• Donation of the leftover food to the food bank or ashram instead of throwing it away
• Prohibition of the bursting of firecrackers
• Maintenance and cleanliness of the Toilets

Contributed By: Komal Jadhav (Sr. Project Coordinator) & Aniruddha Pandav (Manager) at Social Lab

Social Lab Environmental Solutions is a waste management consultancy company providing end-to-end consultancy services to the ULBs on solid waste management and plastic waste management. Our core expertise includes capacity building, waste assessment, IEC campaign design & implementation, scheme compliance documentation, GPS collection route designing, and monitoring, and providing technical advisory and market linkages for efficient wet and dry waste management.

To know more about us and the sector updates, please visit our website (www.social-lab.in) and follow us on social media (https://linktr.ee/Social_Lab).