If you have ever planned an event, then you’re aware of how much work goes into finding the right venue and setting up the tech. Not to mention making the event memorable for guests. But what a lot of us forget that events can create a massive amount of waste and use up an unimaginable quantity of energy.
It’s high time to make an alteration. The world is awakening to the truth that events do not necessarily have to be damaging to the environment. Promoting sustainable events, regardless of whether you’re organizing a small offsite team or a huge hybrid conference isn’t only the right thing to be doing but also a smart move.
Why not go green with your event?
This number might surprise you. An event lasting three days that includes 500 guests could produce 2,835 kg waste and consume almost 300,000kWh of electricity. This isn’t just an enormous amount, but it’s also a great opportunity to improve.
Attendees today are concerned about sustainability. They want their favourite brands to be viewed as environmentally friendly. Not only are you making a difference for the planet however, you’re also showing your viewers that your values go beyond the stage and screen.
Simple Waste Management: The Best Method to Reduce Clutter
Let’s begin with the waste. The mess that accumulates at events is usually an excellent source of gold. It includes items that are used only once like food leftovers as well as printed materials and brochures that nobody reads. Recycling waste in a sustainable manner is more simple than you imagine.
Here are a few small modifications that can go a great distance:
1. Replace disposables with compostable, or recyclable alternatives.
2. Use QR codes or other event apps instead of printed publications.
3. Give away leftovers. If you have caterers, ask them to give away excess food items to local charitable organizations.
4. Establish recycling stations to help users to dispose of their objects in a responsible way.
It’s not about perfection but progress. Every piece of waste you cut down or redirect is an accomplishment.
You can manage your energy as if you’re professional (without having the status of one)
Making smart energy decisions does not require that you be an expert engineer. Just being conscious of the power events consume is the first step to 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 a few easy ways to lower your energy consumption:
1. Select places that have been rated as being sustainable or that are utilizing sustainable energy sources.
2. Utilize energy-efficient equipment as well as LED lighting for your displays and audiovisual.
3. Hosting virtual or hybrid elements will reduce the need for travel as well as places.
4. Be simple: The most elegant setups typically use less power, and they aren’t expensive.
The goal is to create a experience that is just as powerful but less resource-heavy.
GreenUP Checklist, Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to help you get started. It breaks down the steps to an environmentally friendly event into easy-to-follow steps whether that’s working with vendors using eco-friendly materials, or simply encouraging guests public transport.
This checklist is based on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and ensures that you’re aligning with something bigger than just the event itself.
You can make a difference
At the end of the day, encouraging sustainable events doesn’t mean being flawless, it’s about taking the time to plan. When you take a step or 10 steps, you’re helping to shift the event industry toward something better.
The event you host will be remembered by your speakers, the conversations and the fact that it didn’t seem to be dated or inefficient. Make sure that your attendees know that respect for the environment is a part of an event by leading with a purpose.