Sustainable festival tips: Reduce waste and enjoy more

Simple ways to enjoy festivals while reducing waste

Annika Collins

June 25, 2024

Can festivals be more sustainable?

Summer has arrived, which means festival season is here. From the rolling hills of Glastonbury to the coastal charm of Boardmasters, festivals offer unforgettable experiences, but they can also leave a significant environmental footprint.

With sustainable festival tips for summer, it’s possible to enjoy these events while reducing waste and environmental impact. The Recycle More team has pulled together practical advice to help you enjoy festival season responsibly, without losing any of the fun.

Festival tents

Festival camping: Reduce waste before you pitch up

Camping is often where the biggest environmental impact happens at festivals. A few thoughtful choices can make a big difference:

  • Go for quality: Invest in a durable, well-made tent that will last multiple festival seasons
  • Choose second hand: Look for pre-loved tents on platforms like eBay, Freecycle or in local charity shops
  • Avoid single-use tents: Many festivals are cracking down on abandoned tents, take yours home, reuse it, or pass it on
  • Camp considerately: Pack up all belongings and rubbish, leaving the site as you found it

Green travel: Lower your festival carbon footprint

How you travel to and from a festival can significantly affect its environmental impact:

  • Trains and buses: Use public transport where possible to reduce emissions
  • Car share: If driving, share the journey and costs with friends or fellow festival-goers
  • Bike-friendly festivals: Some festivals, such as Shambala, encourage cycling with secure bike parking and routes

Sustainable eating and drinking at festivals

Food and drink can generate a lot of unnecessary waste but small swaps help:

  • Bring your own: Pack a reusable water bottle, cutlery and food containers
  • Reusable cups: Many festivals use reusable cup schemes, but bringing your own can reduce waste further
  • Buy local: Farmers’ markets and local stalls reduce food miles and support sustainable producers

Recycling and reducing waste on-site

Recycling facilities vary by festival, so it’s worth being prepared:

  • Know the recycling points: Familiarise yourself with waste and recycling areas
  • Use compost bins: Dispose of food scraps and compostable items correctly
  • Choose smarter packaging: Opt for products with minimal or recyclable packaging

Clothing and equipment: Pack smarter, waste less

Festivals are the perfect place to express yourself , without buying new:

  • Second hand first: Thrift shops and vintage stores are great for unique festival outfits
  • Support sustainable brands: Look for ethical manufacturing and sustainable materials
  • Pack a repair kit: A small sewing kit can fix clothing or tent tears
  • Plan ahead: Only take what you need to avoid overpacking or buying duplicates

Enjoy festivals without leaving a trace

With a bit of planning, you can enjoy festival season while significantly reducing your environmental impact. Always take everything home with you and leave no trace behind.

Remember, the land you enjoy will later be home to wildlife, leaving waste behind can cause long lasting harm. By following these sustainable festival tips for summer, you help protect the places that make festivals so special.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author, Annika Collins, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Recycle More, Valpak Limited, or any other organisation.