Enhancing Recycling Through Creative Programming
Situation: The Montgomery County Division of Solid Waste Services (DSWS) contracted with Brotman•Winter•Fried Communications (BWF) to design, develop and implement a series of recycling awareness events. This weeklong series of events was designed to promote recycling awareness in Montgomery County and to recognize businesses, multi-family properties, individuals, schools, and residents that have made outstanding efforts or contributions to Montgomery County’s recycling program.
Objectives: Montgomery County has set a goal of which 50 percent of all solid waste is recycled content. In order to achieve this objective, all County businesses and residents must be made aware of the need to become involved in the County’s recycling program, and must recycle as much material as possible. The goal of Recycling Awareness Week is to both promote awareness of the County’s 50 percent recycling goal and to recognize those businesses, multi-family properties, individuals, schools, and residents that have and/or are working to achieve this goal. The weeklong series of events also increase awareness of the County’s SORRT and TRRAC programs (for businesses and multi-unit residential communities) along with the resources that are available to maximize successful and efficient recycling and waste reduction efforts.
Process: BWF developed a two-pronged approach to enhancing recycling programs within the County. For four days, BWF visited 12 County elementary schools to present a 45-minute assembly focused on the importance of recycling. The presentation, packaged as a magic show to engage the younger audience, encouraged students and teachers to improve recycling techniques both in the classroom in their homes. BWF was responsible for contracting the magician, securing the school locations, working with school personnel to ensure proper assembly space, and for the overall flow of each day’s events. Also during the week, BWF hosted the Recycling Awards Ceremony, focused on acknowledging businesses and individuals who pushed the County closer to their 50 percent recycling goal. Working alongside venue staff, appropriate catering was selected and audio/visual equipment was secured and tested. Proper room layout was arranged, and multiple site visits ensured that the hotel was in clear understanding of the client objectives. BWF created and placed all hotel signage, as well determined the program in concert with DSWS efforts. Various vendors were also secured, including a professional photographer and recycled awards manufacturer. Additionally, BWF was responsible for creating and distributing all invitations to award recipients and special guests, as well as confirming registration through an online RSVP system. Onsite at the event, BWF managed registration while also maintaining constant communication with all venue staff and third-party vendors.
Results: DSWS personnel were thrilled with a flawlessly executed week of events during all assemblies and the ceremony and continues to select BWF on an annual basis to manage this event. County participation in the recycling programs continues to increase as awareness of its simplicity continues to spread through this BWF outreach.
