It’s no secret that planning an event can be a lot of work. It’s about selecting the perfect location as well as setting up your technology, making your guests feel at home and making it memorable. But what a lot of us overlook the fact that events can produce an enormous amount of waste and use up an eye-opening quantity of energy.
It’s time to make an impact. In increasing numbers, people are recognizing that events don’t need to have a large environmental footprint. Promoting sustainable events, regardless of whether you’re planning an offsite event or a big hybrid conference is not only the right thing to be doing but also a smart move.
Why go green with your event?
This number may surprise you. An event lasting three days that has 500 attendees could produce 2,835kg of waste and consume more than 300,000 kWh of electricity. This is not just an astonishing amount, but also an opportunity to make improvements.
Sustainability is a major concern for today’s attendees. They are looking forward to seeing their favorite companies and brands walk the ethical code. When you adopt steps towards sustainable event planning, you’re more than only helping the planet, but you’re also showing your audience that your values extend beyond the stage or the screen.
Simple Waste Management Strategies to Cut the Clutter
Let’s begin with the waste. Events can be goldmines of unneeded clutter, single-use plastics leftover food items and printed brochures that no one is interested in, and so on. But with a little intention, sustainable waste management is easier than you think.
Here are some simple modifications that can go a way:
1. Change to compostable or reusable alternatives for plastic cups and other kitchen utensils.
2. Instead of printed event programs, use apps or QR codes instead.
3. Donate leftovers. If you are working with caterers solicit them to donate excess food items to local charities.
4. Set up recycling stations Let your guests know how to dispose of their waste responsibly.
It’s not perfection that matters more than growth. Every bit of waste you divert or reduce is a win.
How to manage energy as if you’re professional (without being one)
It’s not necessary be a professional engineer in order to make smart energy decisions. Knowing how much energy events consume is the first step to making a change. Strategies for managing energy in events aren’t necessarily about the loss of comfort or technology. It’s just important to be aware of how you apply these strategies.
Here are some simple ways to decrease your energy use:
1. Select venues that have sustainability certifications, or alternative energy sources that are renewable.
2. Displays and AV, use LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment.
3. You can hold virtual or hybrid events in order to cut down on expenses for travel and venue.
4. Make it easy. The best configurations consume less energy.
The goal is to create an experience that’s equally powerful but with less resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
If you’re unsure how to start with your event, tools like the GreenUP Checklist can make life much simpler. It breaks down each step into clear, actionable steps.
This checklist is based off the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to make sure you are aligning yourself with something more than just the occasion you’re attending.
You’re in the position to make a difference
Promoting sustainable events doesn’t have to mean perfect but it does mean being deliberate. You can assist in helping the event industry to become better conditions by taking one or ten steps.
They will be able to remember your amazing speakers, fun interactions and also the fact that your event was not dated or a waste of time. Set the tone with intention and make sure to show that your event is focused on caring for our planet.
