Another key consideration is the litter and waste generated during the event. Organisers should plan for appropriate clean-up measures to maintain the area’s cleanliness and environmental standards. This includes providing bins for general waste / recycling throughout the event site, as well as ensuring they are emptied regularly, and post-event clean-up is equally important and should be factored into the event plan from the outset.
Clean-up services can be arranged as a chargeable option through Cumberland Council, which may include litter collection, street sweeping, and disposal. Alternatively, organisers can coordinate with self-organised community volunteers to assist with litter picking and tidying up the area. If using volunteers, it’s important to provide them with appropriate equipment such as gloves, litter pickers, and bin bags, and to ensure their safety is considered in the event’s risk assessment.
Ensuring a clear and well-communicated plan for waste disposal and post-event clean-up not only supports sustainability and environmental responsibility but also helps maintain good relationships with the local community, landowners, and authorities. It demonstrates respect for the space used and contributes to the long-term viability of hosting future events in the area.
Simpler Recycling is a key part of the UK’s strategy for waste. Workplace recycling in England changed on 31 March 2025. All workplaces, including festivals, exhibitions, conferences, and trade shows must separate waste into:
- dry recyclables (plastic, metal, glass, paper, and card)
- food waste
- residual waste (black bin, or general waste)
If your current waste collector does not offer the full range of collection services, you will need to arrange these services from other providers.
Guidance for all businesses, charities and public sector organisations on separating recyclable waste, can be found on the following websites for information.
The Business of Recycling and Simpler recycling: workplace recycling in England | GOV.UK
Please note, if you can organise volunteers to undertake the litter picking, collection and disposal of waste will still need to be organised. Litter must not be left in black bin bags onsite or taken to a household waste recycling centre.