It’s no secret that planning an event is a lot of work. It involves choosing the right venue in addition to setting up the equipment to make your guests feel comfortable, and making it memorable. But what a lot of us overlook events are likely to generate a massive amount of waste and use up an impressive amount of energy.
It’s time to implement an impact. The world is finally waking up to the fact that events do not have to be environmentally damaging. It doesn’t matter if are organizing a hybrid conference or a smaller group offsite organizing a sustainable event is the smartest thing to achieve.
Why is it important to go green for your Event?
Here’s a number that might shock you If you attend a typical 3-day gathering with 500 attendees can produce around 2,835 kg of waste, and consume around 300,000 kWh in energy. This isn’t just a huge number it’s a big opportunity to improve.
Sustainability is a major concern for today’s attendees. They want to see evidence that their favorite businesses and brands are living up to their claims. 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.
Simple Waste Management: The Best Method to Reduce Clutter
Let’s start by tackling the problem of waste. Events can be goldmines of wasteful plastics that are single-use leftover food items and printed brochures that no one is interested in, and so on. The sustainable management of waste is less difficult than you thought.
Here are some changes that could make a huge impact:
1. Change to compostable or reusable alternatives to plastic cups and other utensils.
2. Use QR codes or other event apps instead.
3. Donate leftovers.
4. Make recycling stations available to help people to dispose of their items in a responsible manner.
The aim isn’t perfect, it’s the process of progress. Each piece of waste that you divert or reduce is a victory.
You can manage your energy like professional (without being one)
Making smart energy decisions doesn’t require an expert engineer. The first step to change is to be aware of the power that events consume. Strategies for energy management in events don’t have to mean cutting back on comfort or technology. Just be aware of how they are used.
Here are a few easy methods to cut down on energy consumption:
1. Select venues that have been certified as environmentally sustainable or that use sustainable energy sources.
2. Use energy-efficient equipment and LED lighting for displays and audiovisual.
3. Hosting hybrid or virtual elements will reduce the need for travel as well as venues.
4. Keep it simple. The best setups use less energy.
The goal is to create an experience that’s just as effective, but requires less resources.
GreenUP Checklist, Your Secret Weapon
If you’re unsure where to start using tools such as the GreenUP Checklist can make life a lot simpler. It will break down the steps required to a more sustainable event into easy, practical steps whether that’s working in conjunction with vendors to source eco-friendly products or simply encouraging guests to use public transport.
This checklist is based on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and ensures that you’re aligned with something greater than just the event itself.
You Have the Power to Make a Difference
It’s not about achieving perfection it’s about being intentional. You can help the event industry to become better conditions by taking the smallest or most important steps.
People will remember the amazing speakers, the engaging interactions, and of course it’s a aspect that the event didn’t appear a waste or old-fashioned. Let your guests know that caring about the environment is an important part of the event by guiding with a purpose.