It’s no secret that planning events is a ton of work. It’s about choosing the right venue in addition to setting up the equipment, making your guests feel welcome, and making it memorable. This is something that many fail to realize: Events can produce lots of waste, and demand huge amounts of energy.
It’s time to make a change. In increasing numbers, people are becoming aware that events don’t necessarily have to leave an enormous environmental footprint. If you’re planning a small team offsite or a major hybrid conference, promoting green events isn’t just a responsible option, it’s also the smart way to go about it.
Why Go Green with Your Event?
This figure might be a surprise. A three-day gathering that has 500 attendees could produce 2,835kg of waste and use nearly 300,000kWh of electricity. It’s not just an enormous number, it’s also a chance for improvement.
The present generation is concerned about sustainability. They want to see their favorite companies and brands walk the walk. If you make the effort to implement sustainable event planning, you’re more than just helping the planet you’re making your audience aware that your beliefs go beyond the stage or the screen.
Simple Waste Management Strategies to reduce the amount of clutter
Let’s start by tackling waste. Even the smallest event can produce a lot of mess. There’s single-use plastics and food waste. Additionally, there could be printed brochures that no one has read. If you’re willing to make a few changes sustainability in waste management can be much easier than you think.
Here are a few modifications that can go a great distance:
1. Make the switch to compostable or reusable alternatives for plastic cups and other utensils.
2. Use QR codes or event apps instead of printed publications.
3. Donate leftovers.
4. Recycling stations can be a great method of encouraging people to recycle.
It is about progress not perfection. Every piece of waste you reduce or divert is a win.
How to manage your energy like a pro (Without being one)
It’s not necessary to be a professional engineer in order to make wise energy choices. The first step to change is to simply be aware of the power that events use. 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 strategies to reduce your energy consumption:
1. Consider places that are environmentally sustainable or utilize renewable energy sources.
2. Make use of LED lighting and energy efficient equipment for AV and displays.
3. You can hold virtual or hybrid events to cut down on the cost of travel and venue.
4. Be simple. The best setups use less energy.
The goal is to create an experience that’s just as effective but with less resources.
GreenUP Checklist GreenUP Checklist Your Secret Weapon
If you’re wondering where to start Tools such as the GreenUP Checklist can make life significantly simpler. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down steps to create a sustainable event in straightforward and feasible steps regardless of whether you’re working with suppliers on eco-friendly material or encouraging attendees to take public transportation.
This checklist is designed around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals which means that you’re in line with something more than just the event itself.
You can have a positive impact
In the end, creating sustainable events doesn’t mean being perfectly, it’s about making a conscious effort. No matter how many steps you take, you’re aiding in shifting the industry towards something better.
Your event will be remembered for the speakers, the interaction and the fact that it didn’t seem old-fashioned or wasteful. Let your guests know that caring for the environment is part of the overall event by leading with purpose.