How do waste reduction and theater relate to each other? One performance art space in the Berkshires, Shakespeare & Company, is exploring that intersection. They are on a mission to foster creativity and community engagement, and the theater recognizes the importance of integrating eco-friendly practices into its operations.
Effective waste management programs are very important for any company looking to reduce their waste. Shakespeare & Company has a single stream recycling system that separates recyclable materials such as cardboard and containers from general waste. In addition to recycling, the company partnered with Apparel Impact to run a textile donation program, allowing old costumes and fabrics to be repurposed rather than discarded. Shakespeare & Company also composts landscaping debris on-site. These efforts showcase the company’s commitment to waste reduction and environmental stewardship.
Looking for even more opportunities to reduce waste, Shakespeare & Company collaborated with RecyclingWorks. Emma Sabella, a RecyclingWorks Waste Reduction Consultant, came for a site visit and identified several opportunities for growth. One recommendation included how the company can explore partnerships with other organizations to donate surplus staging materials. RecyclingWorks also recommended a composting initiative to divert food scraps from resident kitchens and expanding sustainability training during staff and resident onboarding to improve compliance with waste management practices and ensure ongoing participation. RecyclingWorks gave insight on how to conduct a formal waste bin inventory to assess the number, sizes, and signage of bins to help optimize bin placement across the grounds, ensuring more efficient material stream separation.
Shakespeare & Company has made impressive strides in integrating sustainable practices into its operations. These ongoing efforts will contribute to the company’s sustainability goals and inspire others in the arts community to embrace eco-friendly practices. Most businesses generate waste; however, the decision to reduce waste depends on passion, available tools and resources, and the willingness to take the first step. When it comes to reducing waste and helping the planet, then “all the world’s a stage”. To learn more about Shakespeare & Company, check out their website.
If your business or institution is interested in implementing similar waste reduction and diversion programs, RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts (RecyclingWorks) is here to support you. We can create educational signage for your waste and recycling bins, offer in-person site visits and comprehensive, customized waste reduction recommendations, and more. Call our hotline at 888-254-5525 or email us at Info@RecyclingWorksMA.com to get started. RecyclingWorks is Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) funded programs administered by CET.