It’s no secret that planning an event is a lot of work. It involves finding the perfect venue, setting up technology, making your guests feel comfortable, and making it memorable. But here’s the thing many of us overlook events are likely to generate huge amounts of waste and consume an impressive amount of energy.
It’s high time to make the switch. The world is awakening to the fact that events do not have to be environmentally damaging. No matter whether you’re hosting a smaller team on site or a massive hybrid conference, making sure you promote sustainable events isn’t just the right decision to make, it’s the smart thing to do.
Why Go Green with Your Event?
This is a number that may make you think If you attend a typical 3-day gathering with 500 people can generate around 2,835 kilos of waste and consume almost 300,000 kWh of energy. This is not only a large number, it’s also a huge chance to make improvements.
Sustainability is a concern for today’s attendees. They want to know that their preferred brands and businesses live up to the hype. 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 stage.
Simple Waste Management: The Best Way to Reduce Clutter
Let’s start with waste. Even the smallest of events can produce a lot of clutter. There’s single-use plastics, as well as food waste. Also, there might be printed brochures which aren’t read by anyone. With a little planning the proper management of waste that is sustainable can be achieved.
Here are a few simple changes that could go a far:
1. Replace disposables with compostable, or recyclable alternatives.
2. Instead of printed programs for events, use apps or QR codes instead.
3. Donate leftovers. If you’re working with caterers you can ask them to donate excess food to local charities.
4. Make recycling stations available to allow people to dispose of their items in a responsible manner.
The aim isn’t perfect, it’s progress. Every bit of waste you reduce or divert is a victory.
How to manage energy like the pros (without being one)
It’s not required to be an engineer in order to make informed energy choices. Be aware of the amount energy is consumed by events is the first step toward changing. And when we talk about energy management event strategies, it doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or tech it means being mindful of how you use them.
Here are some strategies to reduce your energy consumption:
1. Choose venues with sustainable certifications or alternative energy sources that are renewable.
2. For displays and AV, use LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment.
3. Host hybrid elements or virtual elements in order to cut down on the need for travel and venue.
4. Be simple. The best setups require less energy.
The goal is to create an experience that’s just as impactful however, it’s less resource-intensive.
GreenUP Checklist – Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to help you begin. The checklist breaks each step into simple actionable steps.
This checklist is based around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and ensures that you’re collaborating with something that’s bigger that just your particular event.
You have the power to make a difference
In the end, creating sustainable events isn’t about being perfect it’s about being intentional. Whatever steps you take, you are aiding in shifting the industry towards something better.
The event you host will be remembered due to your speakers, the conversations and the fact that it didn’t seem to be dated or inefficient. Be a leader with a purpose and demonstrate that the event was about being a good steward of the planet.
