If you’ve ever planned an event and you’ve seen how much goes into selecting the right venue as well as setting up technology to ensure your guests feel welcomed, and of course, making it memorable. But here’s the thing many of us overlook that events can create massive amounts of waste and consume an unimaginable quantity of energy.
It’s time to implement an effort to change. People are increasingly 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 should you go green for your next event?
This number might shock you An average 3-day event with 500 attendees can produce around 2,835 kilos of waste and use nearly 300,000 kWh in energy. This isn’t just an incredible number, it’s also a chance to make improvements.
The people of today are concerned about sustainability. They want their preferred brands to be seen as being environmentally friendly. If you host a sustainable gathering you are not just helping the environment but also demonstrate to your attendees that you hold something more than just a screen or the stage.
Simple Waste Management: The Best Method to Reduce Clutter
Let’s begin by removing waste. Events can be goldmines of unnecessary clutter single-use plastics leftover food items and printed brochures that nobody reads, and much more. If you’re willing to make a few changes sustainability in waste management can be much easier than you think.
Here are a few simple changes that could go a long ways:
1. Change to compostable or reusable alternatives for plastic cups as well as other utensils.
2. Instead of printed event program make use of apps or QR codes instead.
3. Give away leftovers. If you’re working with caterers you can ask them to give away excess food items to local charities.
4. Recycling stations are a fantastic way to encourage attendees to reuse.
The goal isn’t perfection it’s advancement. The reduction or elimination of waste is a positive step.
How to manage energy as if you’re the pros (without having the status of one)
Making smart energy choices doesn’t require an engineer expert. Being aware of the amount of power events consume is the first step to change. Energy management strategies for events don’t have to mean abandoning comfort or technology. They just need to be aware of how they are used.
Here are a few easy ways to reduce your energy consumption:
1. Select places that have been rated as sustainable or utilizing renewable energy sources.
2. For displays and AV, use LED lighting and energy efficient equipment.
3. Hosting hybrid or virtual elements can reduce the requirement for travel and locations.
4. Simple is best: the most elegant configurations generally require less power.
The goal is to create an experience that is as thrilling, yet uses fewer resources.
GreenUP Checklist GreenUP Checklist Your Secret Weapon
If you’re wondering how to start, tools like the GreenUP Checklist can make life significantly easier. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down the steps for a sustainable event into straightforward and feasible steps that can be done, whether it’s working with suppliers on environmentally friendly materials or encouraging guests to travel by public transport.
This checklist is based around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, so you know you’re aligning with something bigger than your own event.
You Have the Power to Make a Difference
At the end of the day, promoting green events doesn’t require being perfectly, it’s about making a conscious effort. Whatever step you take, you are helping shift the business towards a better way of doing things.
The attendees will be able to remember the memorable speakers, the fun interactions, and yes the realization that your event didn’t appear a waste or old-fashioned. So go ahead, lead with purpose and let your attendees know that caring for the planet is part of the experience.