Planning an event is a lot of work. It’s about finding the perfect venue, setting up technology to make your guests feel welcome, and making the event memorable. However, there’s one thing that many of us forget: events can generate huge amounts of waste and use up an eye-opening quantity of energy.
It’s time to make an effort to change. The public is increasingly recognizing that events don’t have to have a huge environmental impact. No matter whether you’re hosting a smaller team offsite or a major hybrid conference, promoting green events isn’t just the right decision to make, it’s the most efficient way to go about it.
Why go green with your next event?
Here’s a figure that could surprise you An average 3-day event with 500 guests can generate about 2,835 kg of waste and consume nearly 300,000 kWh in energy. This isn’t just a huge number it’s a big opportunity to do better.
The people of today are concerned about sustainability. They want their favorite brands to be seen as being sustainable. When you take steps toward sustainable event planning, you’re not just helping the planet you’re showing your audience that your values go beyond the stage or the screen.
Eliminating the Clutter Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s start with the trash. Events can be a treasure trove of wasteful plastics that are single-use leftover food, printed brochures that no one reads, and much more. With a bit of planning, waste management that is sustainable can be achieved.
Here are a few small adjustments that can make a big difference:
1. Get rid of disposables: swap out plastic cups and utensils for compostable or reusable options.
2. Utilize QR codes or event apps instead of printed materials.
3. Donate leftovers. If you’re working with caterers, ask them to give away excess food items to local charities.
4. Establish recycling stations: Facilitate the ability of visitors to dispose of waste in a responsible manner.
It’s not perfection that matters more than progress. Recycling or reducing the waste produced is a good thing.
Managing Energy Like A Pro (Without becoming one)
It’s not necessary be an engineer professional to make informed energy choices. Being aware of how much energy events consume is the first step to change. When we talk about energy management strategies for events, it does not mean you need to give up comfort or modern technology. It just means that you need to be aware of the ways in which they are used.
Here are some simple strategies to reduce your energy consumption:
1. Select venues that have sustainable certifications or alternative energy sources that are renewable.
2. Make use of energy-efficient equipment and LED lighting for your displays and audiovisual.
3. You can hold virtual or hybrid events in order to reduce the cost of travel and venue.
4. Be simple: The most elegant setups often use less power anyway.
Create an experience that has the same impact but using less resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
GreenUP Checklists will ease your burden If you’re not sure how to begin. It breaks down the steps to an eco-friendly event into clear, doable actions whether that’s working in conjunction with vendors on eco-friendly materials or just encouraging guests to take public transportation.
This checklist is based on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals which means that you’re aligned with something greater than just the event itself.
You’re in the position to Impact the World
Promoting sustainable events doesn’t have to mean perfect, it means being intentional. It is possible to help the event industry shift to a better place by taking the smallest or most important steps.
Your event will be remembered by its speakers, interactions and the way it didn’t appear to be dated or inefficient. Show your audience how caring about the environment is an important part of your event by leading with a clear goal.