Planning an event is a lot of work. It involves selecting the perfect location and setting up the technology to make your guests feel comfortable, and making the event memorable. Most of us don’t realize that events can cause a lot of waste and consume a huge amount of energy.
It’s the right time to make a change. The world is beginning to wake up to the fact that events do not need to be harmful to the environment. 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 Green Your Event?
This number might surprise you. A 3-day event with 500 people could generate 2,835 kilograms of waste and consume nearly 300,000 kWh of electricity. That’s more than just a massive amount, it’s an opportunity to improve.
Attendees today are concerned about sustainability. They want to see their favourite brands and businesses walking the talking. It’s not just about helping the environment 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 addressing waste. The mess that accumulates at events is usually an opportunity to mine gold. This can include items with a single use and food scraps along with printed materials and brochures that aren’t read by anyone. With a bit of planning and a waste management system that is sustainable could be achieved.
Here are some minor changes that could make a huge change:
1. Discard disposables and swap plastic cups and utensils in exchange for compostable and reusable alternatives.
2. Use QR codes or event apps instead of printed publications.
3. Donate leftovers: If you’re working with caterers, you can arrange that you donate any leftover food to local charities.
4. Recycling stations can be a great method to get people to reuse.
The aim isn’t perfect, it’s advancement. Recycling or reducing the waste produced is a good thing.
Management of Energy Like A Pro (Without becoming one)
It doesn’t require an engineer to make the right choices regarding energy. Be aware of the amount energy events use is the first step to making a change. If we are talking about energy management event strategies, it doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or technology. It’s about taking note of how you are using them.
Here are some simple methods to cut down on energy consumption:
1. Pick a venue with sustainability certifications or renewable energy sources.
2. Use energy-efficient equipment and LED lighting for displays and audiovisual.
3. Hosting virtual elements or hybrid elements will cut down on the need to travel and locations.
4. Simple is best. The best configurations consume less energy.
The goal is to create an experience that’s just as powerful but uses less resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to help you get started. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down steps to a sustainable event into straightforward and feasible steps, whether it’s working with suppliers on environmentally friendly materials or encouraging attendees to take public transportation.
This checklist is designed around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals So you can be sure you’re aligning with something bigger that just your particular event.
You’re in the position to Make a Difference
It’s about not being perfect, but about being deliberate. However many steps you take, you’re helping to shift the industry towards something better.
The event you host will be remembered because of your speakers, the conversations and the aspect that it wasn’t to be dated or inefficient. Set the tone with intention and make sure to show that the event was about taking care of our planet.