The Natural Resources Committee of the League of Women Voters Falmouth believes that organizations large and small have an opportunity and a responsibility to contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future. Our policy is designed to conserve resources, avoid single-use plastic, and reduce our use of materials derived from fossil fuels. Our ultimate goal is to make every meeting, from planning to cleanup, a zero waste event.
Printed materials
- Print on high content recycled paper (50% or higher)
- Use a recycled paper logo and/or “printed on 100% recycled paper” on printed material. This notation helps educate others about such practices.
- Print double sided as much as possible
- Use Draft Mode on internal and draft documents to save ink and energy.
- Be realistic when deciding the number of programs and other handouts to print rather than over-estimate. Events open to the public with food:
Events open to the public with food
- Plan to have a low-waste event (or even zero-waste)
- Use cloth rather than plastic or paper table covers.
- Serve tap water in pitchers; no bottled water.
- Serve foods that do not require utensils or plates.
- Coffee and tea service should be limited to early morning events.
- The following should not be out on the table at events: plastic table cloths, straws, coffee stirrers, small plastic creamers. Bring cream in larger container and share spoons. Provide mugs and encourage participants to bring their own mugs. Hot drink cups may be provided as a backup.
Food service material hierarchy:
- Reusable plates, cups and utensils. Collect, wash and reuse.
- Recyclable products
- Home compostable products (check label)
- Products made from recycled materials
Sort and dispose of waste using collection containers
- Container for reuse, for composting (food scraps and napkins) and for recycling
- Use clear signage for all containers or bins. Getting there: Encourage attendees to car pool; walk or bike when possible.
(Adopted 2019)
