You know that planning an event takes a lot of work. It involves finding the perfect venue, setting up technology, making your guests feel welcomed, and making it memorable. However, there’s one thing that many of us forget that events can create huge amounts of waste and consume an incredible amount of energy.
It’s the right time to change. People are becoming more aware. are realizing that events do not need to create a huge environmental footprint. If you’re planning a small group of people offsite or an enormous hybrid conference, making sure you promote sustainable events isn’t just a responsible decision to make, it’s the smart option to take.
What are the benefits of going green for your event?
You might be amazed by this statistic An average three-day celebration with 500 participants can generate about 2,835kg of waste and consume nearly 300000kWh of energy. It’s not just a large amount, it’s an chance to make improvements.
Today’s attendees care about sustainability. They want their favorite brands to be seen as environmentally friendly. If you make the effort to implement sustainable events, you’re not only helping the planet, but you’re also making your audience aware that your values transcend the screen or stage.
Cut the clutter: Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s start with the waste. The pile of garbage that is left during events can be an excellent source of gold. It can be comprised of single-use items like food leftovers along with printed materials and brochures that no one reads. But with a little intention, sustainable waste management is easier than you think.
Here are a few modifications that go a very far:
1. Discard disposables and swap plastic cups and utensils to compostable and reusable alternatives.
2. Instead of printed event programs Use apps or QR codes instead.
3. Donate leftovers: If you’re working with caterers, ask them the donation of leftover food to local charitable organizations.
4. Recycling stations are a fantastic method to get people to reuse.
It’s not about perfectionism that is important however, it’s the progress. Every bit of waste that you can reduce or divert is an accomplishment.
Managing Energy Like a Pro (Without Being One)
Making intelligent energy choices doesn’t require an engineer expert. Simply being aware of how much energy events consume is the first step toward making a change. And when we talk about energy management event strategies isn’t about sacrificing convenience or technological capabilities, it’s just about being aware of how you are using them.
Here are some easy strategies to reduce your energy consumption:
1. Choose places that have been rated as being sustainable or that are utilizing sustainable energy sources.
2. Use LED lighting as well as energy-efficient equipment for displays and AV.
3. Host hybrid or virtual elements in order to cut down on the need for travel and venue.
4. Simple is the best: the most elegant configurations generally require less power.
The aim is to create an experience that’s as powerful but uses less resources.
GreenUP Checklist, Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to start your journey. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down steps for a sustainable event into simple and achievable steps that can be done, whether it’s working with suppliers on environmentally friendly materials or encouraging attendees to take public transportation.
This checklist is built around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, so you know you’re collaborating with something that’s bigger than your own event.
You Have the Power to Impact the World
It’s not about perfectionism it’s about being intentional. No matter how many steps you take, you are helping shift the business towards something better.
The audience will remember the outstanding speakers, the fun interactions, and yes the reality that your event did not feel wasteful or outdated. Make sure you are a leader who is focused and demonstrates that the event is about protecting our planet.