Author – Paul Youngblood
Events bring people together to celebrate, learn, and network. Yet, they can also have a significant environmental footprint – from waste produced to energy consumed. As global environmental awareness increases, event planners are taking steps to ensure their gatherings are both memorable and sustainable. So in this article, we explore a few actionable practices for hosting eco-friendly events that minimize ecological impact and foster a greener future.
Digital Ticketing & Documentation
Reduce paper waste by going completely digital. Generating paper invoices and delivering them causes a significant amount of carbon emissions, leading to an increased carbon footprint. Invitations, programs, and handouts can all be provided electronically. This not only saves trees but also allows for last-minute updates without the need to reprint materials.
Embrace digital solutions for event ticketing to streamline entry processes and reduce the need for physical tickets. This is not only convenient for attendees but also lowers the event’s paper usage. Further, the entire directory of participating delegates and companies can be placed online so that it is easy to search and find. This client database will prove valuable for future events as well.
Minimizing Waste
Think beyond recycling – reducing and reusing materials at your event can have a larger impact. Choose decorations and supplies that can be reused or upcycled and set up clear recycling and composting stations for guests.
Sustainable Catering
Food choices at events play a crucial role in sustainability. Opt for local and seasonal foods that reduce transportation emissions. Embracing plant-based menu options can also lower the carbon footprint. Don’t forget to plan for proper food waste management! Food waste will be the biggest category of waste generated at events since both hosts and participants would prefer to eat at their venue. Reducing single-use plastic packaging will be the most important aspect with the use of alternatives such as bioplastics, bagasse bowls, paper bags, etc.
Energy Efficiency
Opt for LED lighting and energy-saving appliances. If you need a backup generator, choose the ones that run on solar power or biofuels. Coordinate event times to make the most of natural light and temperate weather to reduce HVAC needs. Providing adequate natural light panels and air ventilation is the best way to ensure reduced energy consumption.
Sustainable Merchandise
Offering mementos and gifts at events is an essential ritual. Ensure any merchandise or giveaways are useful, ethically produced, and ideally, made from recycled or sustainable materials. Think long-term use, not just a one-time event memento. One way to do this is by wrapping gifts in eco-friendly materials, which will also help reduce your carbon footprint.
Venue Selection
Choosing the right venue can set the stage for sustainability. Consider venues that have a documented commitment to the environment, be it through renewable energy use, effective waste management systems, or eco-certifications. Utilizing natural light and outdoor spaces can also reduce energy consumption and create a refreshing ambiance.
Water Conservation
Provide water stations with reusable cups or encourage attendees to bring their own bottles instead of offering bottled water. This reduces plastic waste and the energy used in producing and recycling plastic bottles.
Engage Participants Post-Event
Educate and involve attendees in your sustainability efforts. Share your event’s environmental policies and encourage guests to contribute to your green initiatives during the event. This can amplify the impact and potentially influence them in their future actions. Your event culmination does not mark the end of sustainability efforts. Conduct a post-event evaluation to measure the environmental impact and gather insights for future improvements. Donating leftover materials and ensuring a thorough clean-up can ensure the event leaves a positive legacy.
Partnering with Green Vendors
Collaborating with vendors who prioritize sustainability can further reduce the ecological footprint of your event. Seek out suppliers who practice environmental responsibility in their operations, such as those who use minimal packaging or offer environmentally friendly products. You can even search for vendors who have certain certifications or official recognition for their environmental efforts.
Eco-Friendly Transportation
Encourage the use of public transport, carpooling, or provide shuttle services to attendees. Offering secure bicycle storage can promote cycling to the event. For events with a large ecological footprint from travel, consider carbon offset programs.
Green Accreditation
Aim for your eco-friendly event to be recognized with a green certification or accreditation. This will not only benchmark your event against recognized sustainability standards but also demonstrate your commitment to environmental stewardship to attendees and stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement
Sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Stay informed about new green technologies and practices that can be incorporated into event management. Always look for ways to further reduce the environmental impact of your eco-friendly events with each iteration.
Sustainable event planning is not just a trend, but a responsible approach to bringing people together. By implementing the practices outlined above, event planners can significantly reduce the environmental impact of their events and lead the way toward a more sustainable future. It’s time to celebrate responsibly!
