Event Container Loan Program

SWACO's Event Container Loan Program is designed to help Franklin County events effectively reduce, reuse, recycle, and compost!

Event Waste Reduction

Franklin County is home to hundreds of events each year which make our county a great place to live, work and visit.

60-70% of all landfilled materials could have been recycled or composted.
Our community is placing greater importance on waste diversion methods including recycling. In 2021, Franklin County's diversion rate rose to an all-time high of 51%.

Users may request up to 150 recycling containers or 75 recycling and 75 landfill containers for their event. 20 compost containers are also available.
The containers are lightweight and portable.
If approved, containers may be picked up at SWACO during normal work hours M-F.
Bins perform best with 40” x 45” (45 gallon) bags.
Containers are loaned out on a first come, first serve basis.

Users MUST contact a SWACO representative first BEFORE submitting the request form to ensure availability of containers.
All events open to the public and located in SWACO's jurisdiction (PDF map) are eligible to apply.
A Request Form must be emailed to [email protected] two weeks prior to the event.
Approved requests will require a signed Container Loan Agreement and a $10 deposit for each container loaned (i.e. 25 containers = $250 deposit). The deposit check will be returned pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Loan Agreement.
In order to measure the impact of this program, Event Organizers are required to share the amount of materials recycled, composted, and/ or landfilled with SWACO by submitting a Final Report.

Review the Event Waste Reduction Grant Program to see if your event is eligible for grant funding to reduce event-generated waste from the Franklin County Landfill.
Download SWACO's Event Waste Reduction Best Practices Guide (PDF) for tips and tricks to host a more sustainable event.
Download the City of Columbus Green Event Guide (PDF)
Download the OEPA's Zero Waste Special Event Planning Guide (PDF)
Watch short recorded SWACO webinars to learn what's recyclable at events and why, strategies for waste reduction, and more.
Request recycling training for your event volunteers and staff by emailing [email protected].