Groovin' Green
From recycling programs to composting efforts, the festival encourages attendees and vendors alike to participate in eco-friendly practices with sustainability initiatives.
Picture this—you're grooving to your favorite band, a plate of crawfish bread in hand, and soaking up the magic of Jazz Fest.
There is nothing quite like the energy of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell, and it takes a lot of work behind the scenes for festivalgoers to enjoy great music, amazing food, and a vibrant atmosphere. But beyond the music and revelry, did you know Jazz Fest is also working behind the scenes to keep things green?
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a Jazz Fest regular, there are many ways you can contribute to making the event more sustainable. Here's a closer look at the festival's green initiatives and how you can do your part.
Recycling at Jazz Fest
Recycling is a key component of Jazz Fest's sustainability strategy. The festival provides designated recycling locations where attendees can properly dispose of recyclable materials, such as plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and paper products. Volunteers and staff work to ensure that recycling bins are strategically placed and easily accessible throughout the festival grounds.
In addition to general recycling, the festival has a Battery Recycling Program, which collects used batteries from performers' audio devices. These batteries are then safely disposed of or recycled, preventing hazardous materials from ending up in landfills. By participating in these recycling efforts, festivalgoers can help reduce waste and support the festival's commitment to environmental responsibility.
Composting Efforts
Composting is another significant sustainability initiative at Jazz Fest. The festival collects compostable materials from food vendors, including biodegradable plates, utensils, and leftover food scraps. Additionally, fruit waste from the WWOZ Hospitality Tent is collected and composted rather than thrown away. This effort helps reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills while also contributing to soil enrichment projects in the local area.
If you're attending Jazz Fest and purchasing food from vendors, look for composting bins and ensure that your waste is disposed of in the proper container when composting options are available.
Water Refill Stations and Reusable Bottles
To reduce single-use plastic waste, Jazz Fest has established water refill stations throughout the festival grounds. These refill stations are marked on festival maps, making it easy for attendees to find a convenient location to refill their bottles.
Festivalgoers are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles or purchase the Jazz Fest stainless tumbler, which is available on-site. By choosing reusable options, attendees can help minimize plastic waste while staying hydrated throughout the day.
Used Cooking Oil Recycling
Jazz Fest has partnered with local organizations to collect and repurpose used cooking oil from food vendors. Rather than disposing of used oil improperly, vendors contribute to a program that converts the oil into fuel for local shrimping boats. This initiative not only reduces waste but also supports the local fishing industry by providing an alternative, sustainable fuel source.
Shell Recycling Reward Program
One of the festival's more interactive sustainability programs is the Shell Recycling Reward Program. This initiative allows attendees to actively participate in keeping festival grounds clean while earning the chance to win exciting prizes.
During the event, Shell provides attendees with bags that can be filled with recyclable materials collected from the festival grounds. For every full bag of recyclables returned, participants increase their chances of winning prizes. Last year's prizes included VIP Grand Marshal passes for Jazz Fest 2025 or a Shell RIDE SR-38 Electric Bike. This program not only incentivizes festivalgoers to recycle but also fosters a greater sense of environmental stewardship among attendees.
How Attendees Can Be More Eco-Conscious at Jazz Fest
While Jazz Fest has taken numerous steps to implement sustainability initiatives, attendees also play a crucial role in making the festival as eco-friendly as possible. Here are a few simple ways you can contribute:
Bring Your Own Reusable Water Bottle - Take advantage of the water refill stations to reduce plastic waste. Opt for a Jazz Fest tumbler or bring your own reusable bottle.
Use Public Transportation or Carpool - Reduce your carbon footprint by using public transit, biking, or sharing a ride with friends rather than driving alone.
Sort Your Waste Properly - Pay attention to designated recycling and compost bins to ensure waste is disposed of correctly.
Support Vendors with Sustainable Practices - Choose food vendors that use compostable packaging or source ingredients locally.
Participate in the Shell Recycling Reward Program - Collect recyclables around the festival and exchange them for a chance to win exciting prizes.
Avoid Single-Use Plastics - Whenever possible, opt for reusable cups, straws, and utensils to minimize plastic waste.
Respect the Festival Grounds - Keep Jazz Fest clean by disposing of waste responsibly and encouraging others to do the same.
With thousands of attendees each year, Jazz Fest has a significant environmental impact. However, through initiatives like recycling, composting, water refill stations, and used cooking oil collection, the festival is actively working to reduce its footprint. In fact, in 2023, Jazz Fest successfully diverted 82,400 lbs. of recyclable materials from our local landfills. By taking small yet meaningful steps, festivalgoers can support these sustainability efforts and ensure that Jazz Fest remains an eco-conscious event for years to come.
Whether you're enjoying world-class music, indulging in delicious local cuisine, or dancing the day away, being mindful of your environmental impact can help make Jazz Fest a more sustainable celebration. So grab your reusable water bottle, sort your waste correctly, and be a part of the green movement at Jazz Fest.
