Sustainability at Overture: Recycling just got a lot easier!

As the staff-led Sustainability Committee continues its focus on enhancing sustainability practices across the organization, our emphasis this winter has been on recycling. Read on to learn about the ways waste management is being optimized in the building. 

New recycling bins provide better access for patrons 

In response to patron feedback, our Facilities department, with support from the Sustainability Committee, recently purchased new trash and recycling receptacles. These paired bins have been added at key points around the building to provide easier access for patrons to recycle when attending performances. With these additional recycling cans, we expect to see a reduction in misplaced recyclables in trash bins. 

“Previously, we typically had one recycling can for every four trash cans in our building.  I often have patrons come up to me asking where they can recycle their items,” says Emily Vaillancourt, House Manager and committee member. “Almost everything people receive at Overture Center, like cups, programs and drink cans, is recyclable, but I’ve seen so much of it go into the trash simply because they cannot find a recycling can in their area.” 

Now there are few places in the building where you won’t find both a trash and recycling can.

Recycling becomes a Front of House priority 

In addition to new bins, Guest Services is facilitating a Sustain Dane-led training this month for all paid Front of House staff on the importance of recycling. Staff will learn about the specific products sold at Overture that are recyclable, from drinks and snacks to the printed programs, and where to guide patrons to recycle. 

“This training will allow our staff to better assist the thousands of guests who come through the venue every week,” shares Vaillancourt. 

Recycling has also been a priority in the past few years for Catering a Fresco, Overture’s partner who operates the bars, concessions and catering in the building. They have shifted concession products and takeaway containers to be more recyclable, including a recent swap from plastic water bottles to aluminum canned water that uses an average of 73% recycled material per can. 

“Catering a Fresco has made deliberate choices in the type of packaging we use for our food and beverage selections,” explains Megan Moderson, Director of Operations. “Most beverages purchased through concessions are served in recyclable vessels. We want to do our part to keep useful materials out of landfills.” 

Detailed signage and a new theater-walkthrough recycling program are currently in the works to continue Front of House’s efforts to simplify recycling and reduce waste. 

Sustainability Committee tours recycling facility 

Last month, Overture’s Sustainability Committee toured Pellitteri’s Kipp Street Station, where all recycling for the city of Madison and Pellitteri’s customers, including Overture Center, is sorted. According to Pellitteri, this “state-of-the-art facility is a fully automated ‘Material Recovery Facility’ which sorts single stream recyclables.” (Single stream recycling is when all recyclables are collected in a single bin rather than pre-sorted by type, such as glass, plastic and paper.) 

Committee members were led through a presentation on what Pellitteri recycles, the company’s history and how the facility’s automated sorting process works. From a high office vantage, they witnessed the operation of trucks arriving, and recyclable materials being loaded, sorted and compacted into bales to be shipped to manufacturers who turn them into new products. Learn about the full process with Pellitteri's video below.

“Noticing Pellitteri's continuous improvement in technology and processes gives me assurance that the work and effort we put into recycling is worth every minute on our part,” expresses Tony Wantoch, Director of Facilities. “Learning about the sorting system and how it operates really painted the picture and answered many of the ‘why's’ behind best recycling practices. It was fascinating to learn how A.I. is used in the sorting process, it added an enjoyable and eye-opening element to the tour. A huge thank you to the Pellitteri crew for their hospitality and continued partnership!” 

As the Sustainability Committee continues its commitment to optimizing waste management and promoting recycling, the ongoing collaboration between staff, patrons and community partners remains key to Overture Center's progress. With new bins, training for Front of House staff and a deeper understanding of the recycling process, we are moving closer to a more sustainable future. Each effort, big or small, contributes to the larger goal of reducing waste and fostering environmental responsibility. Together, we can continue making strides toward a cleaner, greener and more sustainable venue for all. 

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