Planning events is a ton of work. It involves finding the ideal venue, setting up technology as well as making your guests feel comfortable, and making it memorable. But here’s the thing many of us forget the fact that events can produce an enormous amount of waste and use up an incredible amount of energy.
It’s time to make changes. People are increasingly realizing that events don’t need to have a massive environmental impact. Promoting green events, whether you’re arranging a small offsite team or a large hybrid conference, is not just the right thing to be doing but also the smart thing.
Why not go green with your next event?
This number may surprise you. A 3-day event with 500 people could produce 2,835 kg waste and use nearly 300,000kWh of electricity. This is not only a large number, it’s also a great opportunity to improve.
The present generation is concerned about sustainability. They are looking forward to seeing their favorite companies and brands walking the talk. When you take steps toward sustainable event planning, you’re not just helping the planet you’re showing your audience that your values go beyond the stage or the screen.
Eliminating the Clutter Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s start with waste. Events can turn into a goldmine of unneeded clutter, single-use plastics, leftover food, printed brochures that no one is interested in, and so on. But with a little intention, sustainable waste management is more simple than you imagine.
Here are a few small adjustments that could make a huge change:
1. Get rid of disposables: swap out plastic cups and other utensils with compostable or reusable options.
2. Print-free: Use QR codes or event apps instead of printed publications.
3. Donate the leftovers.
4. Recycling stations can be a great method to get people to reuse.
It’s not about perfectionism that is important it’s growth. Every piece of waste you cut down or redirect is an improvement.
How to manage your energy like a pro (Without being one)
It is not necessary to be an engineer in order to make smart energy decisions. Becoming aware of how much energy is consumed by events is the first step toward making a change. When we discuss the strategies for managing energy during events, this does not mean you need to give up comfort or modern technology. It’s only that you must be aware of how these strategies are utilized.
Here are some simple ways to decrease your energy use:
1. Pick a venue with sustainability certifications, or alternative energy sources that are renewable.
2. Utilize energy-efficient equipment as well as LED lighting for your displays and audiovisual.
3. Host hybrid or virtual elements to save on travel and venue needs.
4. Make things simple It is true that the most beautiful setups typically use less power, and they aren’t expensive.
It’s all about creating an experience that’s just as impactful however, it’s less resource-intensive.
GreenUP Checklist GreenUP Checklist Your Secret Weapon
If you’re not sure how to start with your event, tools like the GreenUP Checklist can make life a lot simpler. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down the steps to a sustainable event into simple and achievable steps that can be done, whether it’s working with suppliers on sustainable materials or encouraging attendees to take public transportation.
This checklist is based on United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to make sure that you’re aligning yourself with something larger than your event.
You can be a part of the solution
Promoting sustainable events doesn’t have to mean perfect and it’s more about taking the time to plan. No matter if you only take one step or ten, you’re assisting in shifting the event industry toward something more sustainable.
The audience will remember the outstanding speakers, the fun interactions, and yes the reality that your event did not seem sloppy or outdated. Make sure you are a leader who is focused and demonstrates that your event is focused on being a good steward of the planet.