If you’ve ever had to plan an event, you’ll know how much work goes into finding the right location and setting up the tech. Not to mention making the event memorable for guests. But there’s something that a lot of us overlook: events can generate massive amounts of waste and consume an impressive quantity of energy.
It’s the right time to change. More and more, people are becoming aware that events don’t have to leave a big environmental footprint. It doesn’t matter if you are organizing a hybrid conference or a small group offsite organizing a sustainable event is the best decision you can achieve.
Why go green with your event?
This figure might be a surprise. A three-day event that is attended by 500 people can produce 285 kg of waste and use nearly 300,000kWh of electricity. This is not only an enormous amount, but it’s also a tremendous chance to make improvements.
The people who attend today are focused on sustainability. They want to see proof that their favourite brands and businesses are living up to the hype. Not only are you making a difference for the planet, but you are also showing your audience that your values extend beyond the stage and screen.
Cutting the Clutter: Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s begin with waste. Even the tiniest of events can create lots of clutter. There’s single-use containers and leftover food. There could also be printed brochures which have been ignored by no one. But with a little intention, sustainable waste management is easier than you think.
Here are a few simple changes that could go a far:
1. Discard disposables and swap plastic cups and utensils for compostable or reusable options.
2. Utilize QR codes or event apps instead of printed program.
3. Donate leftovers. If you have caterers request that they give away excess food to local charitable organizations.
4. Establish recycling stations: Make it easy for attendees to dispose of items responsibly.
The goal is progress, not perfection. Every single bit of waste you divert or reduce is a victory.
How to manage energy like a pro (Without Making the Steps to become one)
It’s not necessary to be an engineer in order to make wise energy choices. Just being aware of how much energy events consume is a first step towards changing. When we discuss strategies to manage energy for events, it doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice comfort or technology. It’s just that you must be aware of the ways in which they are used.
Here are a few simple methods to reduce the amount of energy you use:
1. Pick a venue with sustainability certifications, or renewable energy sources.
2. Use LED lighting as well as energy-efficient equipment for AV and displays.
3. Hosting hybrid or virtual elements will decrease the need to travel and locations.
4. Keep things simple It is true that the most beautiful setups typically use less power, and they aren’t expensive.
Create an experience with the same effect, but with less resources.
GreenUP Checklist GreenUP Checklist Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to begin. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down the steps for a sustainable event into clear and doable actions, whether it’s cooperating with suppliers to create green materials or urging guests to use public transport.
This checklist is based on United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to ensure you are certain that you are aligning yourself with something more than just your particular event.
You can have a positive impact
Promoting sustainable events doesn’t mean that you’re perfect It’s about being thoughtful. If you make one step or ten, you’re helping move the entire industry towards something more sustainable.
They will be able to remember your amazing speakers, engaging interactions along with the fact that your event was not dated or inefficient. Therefore, go ahead, take charge with conviction and show your guests that caring about the planet is a part of the event.