If you have ever planned an event, you’ll know how much effort goes into finding the right venue and putting in the technology. Also, it is important to make it memorable for guests. However, there’s one thing that many people overlook that events can create huge amounts of waste and consume an eye-opening amount of energy.
It’s time to make an effort to change. As more and more people are becoming aware that events don’t need to create a huge environmental footprint. Promoting sustainable events, regardless of whether you’re planning an offsite team or a large hybrid conference, isn’t just the best thing to do but also a smart move.
Why should you go green for your event?
This number might surprise you. A 3-day event with 500 people could generate 2,835 kilograms of waste and use nearly 300,000kWh of electricity. This isn’t just a huge number it’s a big chance to improve.
Today’s customers are interested in sustainability. They want to know that their preferred brands and businesses are living up to their claims. If you host a sustainable gathering that is sustainable, you will not only benefit the environment but also demonstrate to your attendees that you hold an agenda that goes beyond the screen or the stage.
Simple Waste Management: The Best Way to Reduce Clutter
Let’s start by tackling the issue of waste. Even the tiniest of events can produce a lot of mess. There’s single-use plastics and leftover food items. There could also be printed brochures that aren’t read by anyone. But with a little intention, sustainable waste management is easier than you think.
Here are a few small modifications that can go a long way:
1. Replace disposables with compostable or recyclable alternatives.
2. Utilize 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 are a fantastic method of encouraging people to recycle.
It’s not perfection that matters however, it’s the progress. Reducing or diverting garbage is a good step.
Managing Energy Like a Pro (Without being one)
It is not necessary to be a professional engineer in order to make intelligent energy choices. Knowing how much energy events use is the first step toward making a change. And when we talk about strategies for managing energy in events, it doesn’t mean sacrificing convenience or technological capabilities, it’s just about being aware of how you use them.
Here are a few simple strategies to decrease your energy consumption:
1. Look for places that are sustainable or use renewable energy.
2. For displays and AV using LED lights, make sure to use energy-efficient equipment.
3. Host hybrid elements or virtual elements to cut down on travel and venue needs.
4. Be simple. The best setups use less energy.
Create an experience that has the same effect, but with less resources.
GreenUP Checklist, Your Secret Weapon
If you’re unsure how to start with your event, tools like the GreenUP Checklist can make life significantly easier. It breaks down the steps to an event that is more sustainable into clear, doable actions whether that’s working with vendors on eco-friendly materials or simply encouraging guests to take public transportation.
The Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations are the basis for this checklist, which means you’ll know that your event is aligned with something much bigger.
You can have a positive impact
Promoting sustainable events doesn’t require perfection It’s about being thoughtful. No matter if you only take one step or ten, you’re assisting in shifting the way events are run to make it more sustainable.
Your event will be remembered because of the speakers, the interactions and the aspect that it wasn’t outdated or wasteful. Let your guests know that caring for the environment is an integral part of your event by leading with a clear goal.