For the first time, Picnic Day collaborated with R4 Recycling in order to make Zero Waste happen on the quad. Zero waste events reduce our dependence on natural resources and the amount of waste that goes into the UC Davis landfill. In addition, Zero waste seeks to reduce the amount of consumption, minimize waste, maximize recycling, and ensure that products are made to be reused, repaired or recycled back into the environment or marketplace.

Approximately 4,500 people attended Picnic Day 2006. R4 saw the results of high Picnic Day attendance in the large amount of traffic at the Student Organization Faire tables throughout the Quad. A number of proficient staff members and volunteers were on hand throughout the day to handle tabling activities as well as monitor trash, compost, recycling, and cardboard dumping at separate Zero Waste stations spread around the quad. During setup, R4 staff briefed all food booth proprietors on the Quad regarding guidelines for disposal of trash, compost, and cardboard. Signs for trash and compost placement were attached to every station. The Plunk-a-Mug game continued to prove to be popular component of the R4 table. Patrons were asked to fill out recycling surveys in order to play the game and try to win a free mug or Frisbee.

Zero Waste on the quad went well for its first time. With the help of responsible volunteers and staff, R4 was able to make diversions with an adequate number of stations on the quad. R4 collaborated with Coho and SodexHo and purchased compostable utensils that were distributed to attendants. In addition, SodexHo prepared bulk condiment stations to replace the distribution of small condiment packages to avoid the addition of waste. Paper plates and cups were also used to serve food, which were disposed in the compost bins.

R4 received many comments from attendees during the event that were interested in the R4 Recycling Program. Many were interested in learning how to start their own recycling programs, make compost bins and where to buy biodegradable utensils. Picnic Day served not only as an event that promoted waste reduction, but as an educational tool that taught people about waste reduction and encouraged others to make their events zero waste. Let's work together and make Zero Waste happen on next year's Picnic Day.