SSA Group, a best-in-class provider of integrated guest services, took part in the recent AZA Annual Conference which took place in Columbus, Ohio. During the conference, the firm co-hosted the Zoo Day with partner Columbus Zoo and ensured that this event was fully zero waste.
2,100 people attended the Zoo Day, and by running it as a zero waste event, SSA Group and Columbus Zoo were able to divert 94.3% of materials from landfill. This totalled 3790 lbs, including 1140 lbs of compost, 500 lbs of cardboard and 150 lbs of aluminium and glass recycling. 2000 lbs of edible food was recovered and distributed into the community.
A commitment to zero waste
The Zoo Grounds team played a key role in making this event a success from the zero waste aspect. They have a wealth of experience doing this type of event and have dedicated infrastructure, such as trash trucks, containers, and physical space, as well as employees ready to support the initiative
In order to achieve a zero-waste event like this, important elements to consider include ensuring that all serve ware, such as cutlery and cups, is either reusable, recyclable or fully compostable, and making sure that all waste is sorted and disposed of properly. Organisers also need to ensure they have a good relationship with compost haulers and should determine how edible leftover food will be handled. SSA recommends donating to local organisations.
Communication is also key, both with guests and with front-of-house and back-of-house teams.
SSA is dedicated to a zero-waste approach. It has edible food recovery programs at five locations across the United States: National Western, Florida Aquarium, Cincinnati Zoo, MoPop, and Columbus Zoo. As a result, over 10,000 pounds of edible food has been directed to hungry people in these communities.
Since June 2023, the company has implemented 139,000 compostable popcorn bags across its partner locations. SSA also recently launched M&Ms with compostable packaging in Columbus Zoo gift shops.
Last month, SSA Group announced that it is now providing admissions services at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, a popular destination in Columbia, South Carolina, US that welcomes over 1 million visitors annually.
