You’re aware that planning an event takes a lot of work. It’s about finding the ideal venue as well as setting up your technology as well as making your guests feel at home and making it memorable. We often fail to realize that events can create massive amounts of waste, and require massive amounts of energy.
It’s time to implement an impact. People are increasingly realizing that events don’t need to have a massive environmental impact. Promoting green events, whether you’re organizing a small offsite team or a large hybrid conference is not only the best thing to do but also a smart move.
Why is it important to go green for your event?
This number might shock you An average 3-day event with 500 attendees can produce around 2,835 kg of waste and consume almost 300,000 kWh of energy. That’s more than just a massive number it’s a big opportunity to do better.
Today’s attendees care about sustainability. They want to see evidence that the brands and companies they love live 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 tackle the problem of waste. Events can be a goldmine of wasteful plastics that are single-use leftover food items, printed brochures that no one is interested in, and so on. With a bit of planning recycling, a waste management strategy that is sustainable could be accomplished.
Here are some small changes that can make a significant impact:
1. Switch out disposables and plastic cups and utensils to recyclable options that are compostable or reusable.
2. Make the switch to paper-free: Use event apps or QR codes instead of printed publications.
3. Donate leftovers If you’re working alongside caterers, you can arrange to donate surplus food to local charitable organizations.
4. Establish recycling stations in order to assist participants to dispose of things in a responsible manner.
The objective isn’t perfection, but progress. Every piece of waste you eliminate or redirect is an accomplishment.
Managing Energy Like A Pro (Without becoming one)
It’s not necessary to be an engineer professional to make informed energy choices. The first step to change is to be aware about the amount of power that events use. Energy management event strategies do not have to mean cutting back on comfort or technology. It’s just important to be aware of how you apply these strategies.
Here are some methods to cut down on energy consumption:
1. Choose sites that have been certified as environmentally sustainable or that use sustainable energy sources.
2. Make use of energy efficient equipment and LED lighting for displays and AV.
3. Host hybrid or virtual elements to cut back on travel and venue needs.
4. Simple is best: most elegant configurations tend to require less power.
Create an experience that has similar impact, but with less resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to get started. It breaks down the steps to an event that is more sustainable into clear, doable actions whether that’s working in conjunction with vendors to source eco-friendly products or simply encouraging guests to take public transportation.
The Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations are the basis for this checklist. So you’ll be able to know that your event is aligned with something much larger.
It is possible to make a difference
It’s about not being perfect however, it’s about focusing. No matter how many steps you take, you are helping shift the business toward a better future.
They’ll remember your memorable speakers, engaging interactions and the fact that your event was not outdated or inefficient. Don’t hesitate to be a leader with a purpose and let your attendees know that caring for the environment is an essential part of the experience.