If you’ve ever thought of organizing an event and you’ve seen how much is involved in finding the right venue, setting up tech as well as making sure guests are comfortable, and of course, creating a memorable event. But here’s the thing many of us forget the fact that events can produce a massive amount of waste and consume an unimaginable amount of energy.
It’s time for an effort to change. As more and more people are becoming aware that events don’t have to leave a big 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.
Why go green with your next event?
This number might shock you The typical three-day event that has 500 participants can produce about 2,835 kg of waste, and consume around 300,000 kWh of energy. It’s not just an enormous number, it’s also a chance to make improvements.
Sustainability is a concern for the present-day attendees. They want their favorite brands to be seen as environmentally friendly. When you plan a sustainable event you are not just helping the environment, but also show your audience that you have value beyond the screen or stage.
Simple Waste Management Strategies to Reduce the Clutter
Let’s start with the waste. Even the smallest of events can produce a lot of clutter. There are single-use plastics and food waste. There could also be printed brochures that nobody has ever read. With a bit of planning sustainability in waste management can be easier than you think.
Here are a few small adjustments that could make a huge change:
1. Replace disposables with compostable, or recyclable alternatives.
2. Use QR codes or event apps instead of printed programs.
3. Give away leftovers. If you work with caterers request that they donate any leftover food to local charitable organizations.
4. Make recycling stations available to help participants to dispose of items in a responsible and sustainable manner.
It’s not about perfectionism that is important it’s advancement. Every single bit of waste you eliminate or reduce is a triumph.
How to manage energy like the pros (without being one)
Making intelligent energy choices doesn’t require you to be an engineer expert. Being aware of the amount of power events consume is the first step to changing. When we talk about strategies to manage energy for events, this doesn’t mean that you have to give up your comfort or use of technology. It’s just that you must be aware of how these strategies are being used.
Here are a few simple methods to cut down on your energy usage:
1. Select places that have been rated as being sustainable or that are utilizing renewable energy sources.
2. For AV and displays using LED lights, make sure to use energy efficient equipment.
3. Hosting virtual elements or hybrid elements will reduce the need for travel and places.
4. Be simple Simple setups typically use less power, and they aren’t expensive.
The goal is to create an experience that is as effective, but requires less resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
If you’re unsure of where to start, tools like the GreenUP Checklist can make life much simpler. It will break down the steps required to an event that is more sustainable into clear, doable actions whether it’s working with vendors on eco-friendly materials or simply encouraging guests to take public transportation.
This checklist is designed around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, so you know you’re aligned with something greater than your own event.
You can be a part of the solution
In the end, promoting sustainable events doesn’t mean being perfect, but rather being deliberate. You can assist in helping the event industry move to an improved place by following the smallest or most important steps.
They’ll remember your memorable speakers, engaging interactions along with the fact that the event was not dated or a waste of time. Don’t hesitate to make sure you are a good leader and demonstrate to your guests that caring for the planet is an essential part of the experience.