Planning events is a ton of work. It involves finding the ideal venue and setting up the technology as well as making your guests feel at home and making it memorable. Many of us forget that events can create lots of waste and use up a lot of energy.
It’s time to implement a change. More and more, people are realizing that events do not need to have a large environmental footprint. No matter whether you are organizing a hybrid conference or a small group offsite making sure that your event is sustainable is the best decision you can make.
What are the benefits of going green for your event?
This number may surprise you. A three-day gathering that is attended by 500 people can produce 285 kg of waste and consume more than 300,000 kWh of electricity. This isn’t just a staggering amount; it’s an opportunity to make improvements.
Sustainability is a major concern for today’s customers. They want their favorite brands to be viewed as environmentally friendly. When you take steps toward sustainable events, you’re not just helping the planet you’re telling your guests that your values go beyond the screen or stage.
Simple Waste Management Strategies to Cut the Clutter
Let’s start with waste. Even the smallest event can produce a lot of clutter. There’s single-use plastics as well as food waste. Also, there might be printed brochures that have been ignored by no one. But with a little intention, sustainable waste management is easier than you think.
Here are a few minor changes that go a long way:
1. Replace disposables with compostable or recyclable alternatives.
2. Use QR codes or event apps instead of printed program.
3. Donate leftovers If you’re working alongside caterers, you can arrange to donate surplus food to local charities.
4. Make recycling stations available to help participants to dispose of their objects in a responsible way.
It’s not about perfection more than advancement. Reduce or redirecting waste is a great step.
Manage your energy as if you’re professional (without having the status of one)
You don’t need to be an engineer to make intelligent decisions regarding your energy usage. The first step in making a change is to simply be aware of the amount of energy that events consume. And when we talk about energy management event strategies, it doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or technology. It’s about being aware of the way you utilize them.
Here are a few methods to reduce your energy usage:
1. Select venues that have sustainability certifications or renewable energy sources.
2. Utilize LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment for AV and displays.
3. Hosting hybrid or virtual elements will decrease the need for travel as well as venues.
4. Simple is the best: the most elegant designs generally require less power.
Create an experience that has similar impact, but with less resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
GreenUP Checklists will make your life easier if you aren’t sure where to begin. It breaks down each step into clear actionable steps.
The Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations are the basis of this checklist, and you’ll know that the event is linked to an even bigger goal.
You have the power to Change the World
It’s not about achieving perfection, but about being deliberate. If you make one step or ten, you’re helping shift the entire industry towards something more sustainable.
They will remember your great speakers, fun interactions and the fact that the event was not dated or wasteful. Set the tone with intention and make sure to show that your event is focused on protecting our planet.