If you’ve ever had to plan an event, you’re aware of how much work goes into choosing the best venue and setting up the tech. And of course, making it memorable for your guests. We often forget that events create a lot of waste and consume a huge amount of energy.
It’s the right time to change. More and more people are realizing that events don’t need to have a large environmental impact. Whether you’re organizing a small team offsite or a major hybrid conference, promoting sustainable events isn’t just the responsible thing to do it’s the smart thing to do.
Why is it important to go green for your event?
This is a number that may surprise you An average 3-day event with 500 guests can generate about 2,835 kg of waste and use nearly 300,000 kWh of energy. This is not just an astonishing number; it’s an opportunity to make improvements.
The present generation is concerned about sustainability. They want to know that the brands and companies they love live up to their claims. You’re not only making a difference for the planet as well as showing your viewers that your values go beyond the stage and screen.
Cutting the Clutter: Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s start by removing waste. Events can be goldmines of unneeded clutter, single-use plastics, leftover food, printed brochures that nobody is interested in, and so on. However, with a bit of effort, sustainable waste management is much easier than you think.
Here are a few simple modifications that can go a far:
1. Change to compostable or reusable alternatives for plastic cups and other utensils.
2. Use QR codes or event apps instead of printed programs.
3. Donate leftovers.
4. Recycling stations are a fantastic way to encourage attendees to reuse.
It’s not about perfection however, it’s the improvement. Reducing or diverting waste is a great step.
Managing Energy Like A Pro (Without becoming one)
It is not necessary to be a professional engineer to make informed energy choices. The first step to change is to be aware of the amount of power that events use. And when we talk about strategies for managing energy in events does not mean you have to sacrifice comfort or technology. It’s about being aware of how you are using them.
Here are a few easy methods to cut down on energy consumption:
1. Choose venues with sustainability certifications, or alternative energy sources that are renewable.
2. Make use of energy efficient equipment and LED lighting for your displays and AV.
3. It is possible to host virtual or hybrid events to cut down on travel and venue costs.
4. Be simple. The best setups require less energy.
It’s all about creating an experience that’s equally powerful but isn’t as resource-intensive.
GreenUP Checklist GreenUP Checklist Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to help you get started. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down the steps to a sustainable event into simple and achievable steps regardless of whether you’re working with suppliers on environmentally friendly materials or encouraging guests to travel by public transport.
The checklist is based upon the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to ensure you are sure that you’re aligning yourself with something more than just the event you are attending.
You are able to make a difference
In the end, promoting sustainable events isn’t about becoming perfectly, it’s about making a conscious effort. You can aid in helping the industry change to better conditions by taking one or ten steps.
Your event will be remembered due to the speakers, the interactions and the way it didn’t appear to be dated or inefficient. Lead with purpose and show that the event was about taking care of our planet.