Michael Siminitus and Lori Seivers were the Compost and Recycling Coordinators for the 2005 Whole Earth Festival. Their background helped make this year’s organizing and operational aspects a success. Lori worked for and is currently the Director of ASUCD Project Compost. Michael Siminitus works for the UCD R4 Recycling Program.
Both also volunteered or were on WEF staff for the past few years, so they were both familiar with the C&R operations and procedures. As a result, they both complemented each other by having the knowledge about what is recyclable/compostable, who to contact regarding pickups and operational supplies, and familiarity with recycling/composting processes.
Reusable plates, cups, and utensils were again used this year. The reusables continue to impact the waste stream by reducing the overall amount of materials used at Festival. Reuse is the most sincere form of recycling, and while recycling and composting are important, the reusables help make our “Zero Waste” goal more obtainable.
The sorting tables were created in 2002 by Don Oliveira Sr., Leif Morris, Tedley Wilshusen, and Thomas Spahr. They were repainted in 2004, but heavy use and outdoor storage has taken a toll. New paint or even sheet metal covering could be done.
The following graph displays this year’s diversion numbers by volume and weight:
Notes:
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The 96.74% weight diversion rate was a new WEF record.
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The total volume and weight of materials was less than last year. This may be because of the estimated lower Festival visitor turnout due to rain on Sunday.
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The UCD Coffeehouse was responsible for a considerable amount of ‘trash’ generated on Friday, especially straws, coffee cup lids, and Styrofoam cups.
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Landfilled items consisted mainly of materials visitors brought in. These items (all petroleum-based) included Styrofoam coffee/drink cups and their lids, straws, diapers, and plastic wrappers and snack bags.
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Landfilled vendor items included Zip-loc bags - especially for tortillas, tarps, large plastic sheets and packaging.