You know that planning an event can be a lot of work. It’s about selecting the perfect location and setting up the technology to make your guests feel welcome, and making it memorable. However, there’s one thing that many of us forget events are likely to generate massive amounts of waste and use up an unimaginable quantity of energy.
It’s time for a shift. More and more, people are realizing that events don’t need to have a large environmental footprint. 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.
What are the benefits of going green for your next event?
Here’s a number that might shock you: A typical 3-day event that has 500 participants can produce around 2,835 kilos of waste and use nearly 300,000 kWh of energy. This isn’t just an enormous amount, but it’s also a great chance to make improvements.
Attendees today are concerned about sustainability. They are looking forward to seeing their favorite brands and businesses walking the walk. When you plan a sustainable event you are not just helping the environment, but also show your viewers that you have values beyond the screen or the stage.
Cutting the Clutter: Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s begin with the trash. The mess that accumulates during events can be the best gold mine. It includes items that are used only once like food leftovers or printed materials. It can also include brochures that nobody reads. However, with a bit of effort the sustainable management of waste is much easier than you think.
Here are some minor changes that could make a huge change:
1. Disposables should be replaced with compostable or recyclable alternatives.
2. Make the switch to paper-free: Use event apps or QR codes instead of printed documents.
3. Donate leftovers If you’re working with caterers, ask them to donate leftover food to local charitable organizations.
4. Recycling stations can be a great method to get people to recycle.
It’s not about perfectionism that is important it’s improvement. Every bit of waste you reduce or divert is an accomplishment.
Managing energy like a pro (without having the status of one)
Making smart energy decisions does not need you to be an engineer expert. The first step towards making changes is simply being aware about the amount of power that events use. When we talk about the strategies for managing energy during events, this does not mean that you need to give up comfort or modern technology. It’s just that you must be aware of the ways in which they are used.
Here are some easy ways to lower your energy usage:
1. Pick a venue with sustainability certifications or alternative energy sources that are renewable.
2. For AV and displays, use LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment.
3. Host hybrid or virtual elements to cut back on the travel and venue requirements.
4. Keep it simple. The best configurations consume less energy.
The goal is to provide an experience that is just as thrilling, yet uses fewer resources.
GreenUP Checklist, Your Secret Weapon
If you’re wondering what to do next, tools like the GreenUP Checklist can make life a lot simpler. The checklist breaks every step into clear, actionable steps.
This checklist is built around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals So you can be sure you’re aligning with something bigger than your own event.
You can make a difference
It’s not about achieving perfection and being a conscious participant. When you take a step or ten, you’re helping move the way events are run to make it more sustainable.
The event you host will be remembered for the speakers, the interaction and the fact that it didn’t seem outdated or wasteful. Make sure that your attendees know that respect about the environment is an important part of your event by leading with a purpose.