Sustainability and Environment Policy
Many elements of the following sustainability processes are relevant not only to the activities of the Festival, but also to the wider community. These processes assist Festival organisers, participants and attendees to build and contribute to a more environmentally sound, socially resilient and sustainable local and global community.
Waste
The Beautiful Birth Festival aims for maximum diversion of waste materials from landfill by:
- Communicating the recycling message to attendees by signage around the venue and reminders to recycle made over the PA system;
- Separation of waste by patrons and caterers into three streams at recycling stations. These stations consisted of three bins, clearly labeled with cardboard overlays for (1) recyclable containers (PET bottles, cans, glass bottles), (2) food waste and paper/cardboard/corn-starch products associated with food (napkins, paper plates and wrapping) and (3) general waste—such as soiled nappies—destined for landfill;
- The Festival is investigating the possibility of collecting food waste into on-site Bio-bins for diversion to a compost manufacturer;
- Re-using cardboard bins and using biodegradable bin liners;
- A contractual requirement for on-site caterers to use compostable materials (cardboard plates, cardboard hot drink cups, corn-starch cutlery, clear corn-starch tumblers and biodegradable bin liners for food waste bins. A recycling collection area will be allocated for cardboard cartons and boxes from caterers and stallholders);
- Market stalls are requested not to use plastic bags or excess promotional materials; and
- Caterers are also requested not to use single serve sachets or plastic straws.
Energy - The Festival is investigating the use of a Bio-diesel fuelled generator to power the outdoor activities. This includes power for sound production, food stalls and art installations. Bio-diesel is a diesel fuel substitute made from vegetable oils or animal fats. It is made from renewable resources and drastically reduces fossil emissions.
Food
In line with our sustainable living ethic, the Beautiful Birth Festival encourages sustainable agricultural practices and we promote and encourage consumption of organic food:
- Our aim is for a combined total of 40% organic food being available at the Festival, with a goal of increasing this target at subsequent Festivals; and
- We require coffee stalls to use organic and fair trade coffee.
Communication and Marketing
- We use recycled materials where possible;
- We use email communication where possible to minimise paper usage; and
- We use multiple usage promotional and marketing tools including our banner and billboards.
Transport
- The venue for our event was selected for its close proximity to the city centre and its excellent public transport links; and
- Our website contains information on traveling to the event using public transport and a map of the local area to promote walking/cycling.
Cleaning
Some Cleaning products are a major source of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) and other harmful chemicals and have been linked to a range of human and environmental disease. Traditional cleaning products are also often high in nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphates that can lead to water system issues such as algal blooms. More sustainable cleaning products mean less water pollution:
- Tri Nature's Super Eucalyptus All Purpose spray and Tri Nature’s Sanazone odourless disinfectant will be used for the post Festival clean up. It contains no bleach, chlorine, acids or caustic alkalis and does not give off harsh or toxic fumes; and
- Tri Nature Regard Moisturising Hand wash will be supplied in each of the toilets at Fullarton Park Centre.
