Planning an event is a lot of work. It involves choosing the right venue, setting up technology and making your guests feel at home and making the event memorable. We often forget that events create an abundance of waste and use up a lot of energy.
It’s time to make an effort to change. The world is beginning to wake up to the fact that events do not have to be destructive to the environment. 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 should you go green with your Event?
This number may surprise you. A 3-day event with 500 people could generate 2,835 kilograms of waste and consume more than 300,000 kWh of electricity. This is not only an impressive number, it’s also an enormous chance to make improvements.
Sustainability is a major concern for the present-day attendees. They want to see that the brands and companies they love are living up to the hype. It’s not just about making a difference for the planet as well as showing your audience that your values go beyond the screen and stage.
Simple Waste Management Strategies to reduce the amount of clutter
Let’s start by removing waste. Events can be a treasure trove of unneeded clutter, single-use plastics leftover food items and printed brochures that no one is interested in, and so on. With some planning, waste management that is sustainable could be achieved.
Here are some adjustments that will go way:
1. Switch out disposables and plastic cups and utensils to compostable and reusable alternatives.
2. Print-free: Use event apps or QR codes instead of printed materials.
3. Donate leftovers If you’re working with caterers, you can arrange to donate leftover food items to local charitable organizations.
4. Establish recycling stations to allow participants to dispose of their things in a responsible manner.
The goal is progress and not perfection. Each waste item you cut down or redirect is an achievement.
Managing Energy Like a Pro (Without Being One)
It is not necessary to be a professional engineer to make intelligent energy choices. Just being conscious of the power events consume is the first step towards making a change. Strategies for managing energy in events do not have to mean giving up comfort or tech. It’s just important to be mindful about the way you utilize these.
Here are some methods to cut down on energy consumption:
1. Look for the possibility of locating a venue that is certified sustainable or use renewable energy.
2. Use energy-efficient equipment and LED lighting for displays and audiovisual.
3. Hosting hybrid or virtual elements can reduce the need to travel and venues.
4. Be simple Setups that are elegant often use less power anyway.
Create an experience that has the same effect, but with less resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
GreenUP Checklists will make your life easier when you’re not sure where to start. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down steps to create a sustainable event in straightforward and feasible steps, whether it’s working with suppliers on eco-friendly material or encouraging guests to travel by public transport.
The Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations are the basis for this checklist, so you’ll know that the event is in line with an even bigger goal.
You can be a part of the solution
It’s not about perfectionism however, it’s about focusing. You can assist in helping the event industry to become the right direction by taking one or ten steps.
They will be able to remember your amazing speakers, fun interactions along with the fact that your event was not dated or inefficient. Lead with purpose and show that the event is about protecting our planet.