To help you better understand our services and what we can offer, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about event waste management.

What Is Event Waste Management?

Event waste management means the handling, collection, transportation, and disposal of waste produced during events. These waste streams can include solid waste, recyclables, liquid waste (such as wastewater from portable toilets) and greywater (from food waste generated in catering areas and other liquid by-products). Effective waste management solutions not only help to maintain a clean and safe environment for event attendees, but also comply with stringent environmental legal requirements.

At Universal Tankers, we specialise in managing the liquid waste streams that events produce. This type of waste, including wastewater and other general waste liquids, presents unique challenges due to its potential for contamination and the specific regulations surrounding its handling and disposal. You may also need to deal with large volumes, particularly during large gatherings such as festivals.

Our comprehensive waste services are designed to address these challenges head-on. We provide a full range of solutions tailored to the unique needs of each event. This includes the provision of waste holding tanks that are essential for safely containing liquid waste on-site. We also offer the regular servicing of portable toilets to ensure they remain functional and sanitary throughout the event, which is a key aspect of effective waste removal.

Once the event is underway, our team handles the collection and waste removal safely and efficiently. We transport the waste using our fleet of specialised vehicles, which are designed specifically for secure and reliable event waste disposal. This includes transporting the waste to licensed facilities where it is treated and disposed of in compliance with all relevant regulations.

Why Is Event Waste Management Important?

Effective waste management is essential for any event, regardless of its size or type. Here are a few reasons why it is so important:

• Health and safety: Inadequate waste management can create unsanitary conditions that pose serious health risks to attendees, staff, and the public. Effective waste collection and disposal prevents the spread of diseases and helps to maintain a clean and safe environment throughout your event.
• Regulatory compliance: In the UK, the management of waste, especially liquid waste, is governed by strict regulations such as the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005. These laws require that waste is handled, transported, and disposed of in specific ways to avoid contamination and environmental harm. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines, legal action, and reputational damage. Our services are designed to ensure that your event fully adheres to all legal requirements and protect you from potential liabilities.
• Environmental protection: Events often generate large volumes of waste which, if not managed properly, can have severe environmental consequences. Improper disposal can lead to pollution of land, waterways, and ecosystems. By partnering with a responsible waste management provider like Universal Tankers, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your event, preserve natural resources and promote sustainability. This can also help you to comply with regulatory requirements and avoid legal penalties.
• Reputation: Your approach to waste management at your event can greatly influence your brand’s image. Events known for their cleanliness and environmental responsibility are more appealing to both attendees and sponsors. Effective waste management not only enhances the experience for all involved but also strengthens your reputation as a conscientious event organiser.

How do you manage liquid waste at events?

Our approach to liquid waste management at events is comprehensive and methodical. Here is a step-by-step overview of how we manage waste:

1. Pre-event planning: We work with you to assess the waste management needs of your event and create an event waste management plan. This includes estimating the volume of liquid waste, determining the number and type of waste holding tanks required, and planning the logistics for waste collection and disposal.
2. On-site waste collection: During the event, our team will be on hand to manage the collection of liquid waste. This typically involves servicing portable toilets, emptying waste holding tanks, and ensuring that all waste is safely contained.
3. Transportation: Once the waste has been collected, we transport it using our fleet of specialised vacuum tankers. These vehicles are designed to safely transport liquid waste to licensed disposal facilities.
4. Disposal: All waste is disposed of in accordance with UK regulations at licensed facilities. We prioritise environmentally friendly disposal methods, including recycling and waste-to-energy processes.
5. Post-event reporting: After the event, we provide you with detailed reports on the waste management services provided. This includes information on the volume of waste collected, the disposal methods used, and any other relevant details.

What Types of Treatment Plants Should Be Used to Treat Wastewater at Events?

For managing wastewater at events, it's important to select the right treatment systems that can efficiently handle the volume and type of waste generated. The key technologies to consider include Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), Water Treatment Plants (WTPs) and Anaerobic Digestion systems.

Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs)

These plants are designed to treat sewage and greywater generated at events. STPs operate through a series of stages, including primary treatment (sedimentation to remove solid waste), secondary treatment (biological processes such as aeration that break down organic matter) and tertiary treatment (filtration and chemical processes to remove remaining contaminants). These steps reduce pollutants to levels that are safe for discharge or further treatment. STPs are ideal for events with high attendance, where large volumes of sewage need to be processed on-site to avoid environmental contamination.

Water Treatment Plants (WTPs)

WTPs treat wastewater collected from various sources, such as stormwater or greywater from catering and sanitation areas. These plants use physical, chemical and biological processes to remove contaminants, treating the waste so it is safe for either reuse or discharge. WTPs help reduce the environmental impact of your event by the recycling of water and minimising the burden on local water resources. This is particularly beneficial for events held in remote or environmentally sensitive areas.

Anaerobic Digestion Systems

Anaerobic digestion is a process that breaks down organic waste in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas (a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide) and digestate (a nutrient-rich by-product). This technology is highly effective for events that generate large amounts of organic waste, such as food and biodegradable materials from catering services. The biogas produced can be used as a renewable energy source, helping to offset the energy consumption of the event, while the digestate can be used as a fertiliser or further treated. Anaerobic digestion not only reduces the volume of waste that needs to be disposed of but also contributes to a more sustainable event by producing useful by-products.

At Universal Tankers, we provide tailored solutions that integrate STP, WTP and anaerobic digestion technologies, effectively handling all aspects of your event’s wastewater and in compliance with UK environmental regulations.

What types of events do you serve?

We provide waste management services for a wide range of events, including:

• Music festivals and concerts: These large-scale events often generate significant amounts of liquid waste, particularly from portable toilets and catering areas. We have extensive experience of festival waste management for both large and small scale events.
• Corporate events: Whether it is a conference, seminar or product launch, we offer discreet and efficient waste management services that help your event to run smoothly.
• Sporting events: From marathons to football matches, we provide the necessary waste management services to handle the high volumes of waste generated by participants and spectators.
• Community events: Fairs, markets and local celebrations can all benefit from our reliable waste management solutions, as every community event should be safe and clean.
• Weddings and private functions: For more intimate events, we offer tailored services that cater to the specific needs of private functions, including wedding receptions and parties.