You know that planning an event takes a lot of work. It’s about selecting the perfect location in addition to setting up the equipment to make your guests feel at home and making it memorable. Here’s something many of us fail to realize that events can generate a huge amount of waste and take a staggering amount of energy.
It’s time for a shift. As more and more people are realizing that events don’t have to leave a big environmental footprint. Whether you’re organizing a small group offsite or a large hybrid conference, promoting sustainable events isn’t just a responsible choice, but it’s also the most efficient option to take.
Why Green Your Event?
You might be surprised at this amount The typical three-day event that has 500 participants could generate approximately 2,835kg waste and consume almost 300000 kWh of electricity. It’s not just an enormous amount; it’s an opportunity to make improvements.
Today’s attendees are interested in sustainability. They want their preferred brands to be viewed as sustainable. If you are taking steps towards sustainable events, you’re not just helping the planet you’re showing your audience that your values go beyond the stage or the screen.
Cutting the Clutter: Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s begin by eliminating the problem of waste. Even the smallest event can result in a great deal of mess. There are single-use plastics, as well as food waste. Also, there might be printed brochures which no one has read. But with a little intention, sustainable waste management is easier than you think.
Here are some small adjustments that go a long way:
1. Make the switch to compostable or reusable alternatives for plastic cups and other kitchen utensils.
2. Print-free: Use event apps or QR codes instead of printed documents.
3. Give away leftovers. If you work with caterers request that they donate excess food items to local charities.
4. Set up recycling stations in order to make it easier for people to dispose of their things in a responsible manner.
It’s not about perfection but improvement. Every piece of waste you eliminate or redirect is an accomplishment.
Manage your Energy Like a Professional (Without Being One)
It is not necessary to be a professional engineer in order to make informed energy choices. Being aware of how much power events consume is the first step to making a change. When we discuss energy management strategies for events, this doesn’t mean that you have to give up comfort or modern technology. It’s only that you need to be aware of how these strategies are being used.
Here are a few easy ways to reduce your energy consumption:
1. Choose venues with sustainability certifications, or alternative energy sources that are renewable.
2. For AV and displays for AV and displays, you should use LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment.
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 designs generally require less power.
The idea is to create an experience that’s as powerful but uses less resources.
GreenUP Checklist – Your Secret Weapon
If you’re unsure of what to do next using tools such as the GreenUP Checklist can make life a lot simpler. The checklist breaks every step into clear concrete steps.
The checklist is based on United Nations Sustainable Development Goals so that you can be certain that you are aligning yourself with something bigger than your particular event.
You’re in the position to Make a Difference
In the end, creating sustainable events isn’t about becoming perfect, but rather being deliberate. Whatever step you take, you’re helping shift the business towards a better way of doing things.
Your event will be remembered because of the speakers, the interaction and the way it didn’t appear old-fashioned or wasteful. Make sure that your attendees know that respect for the environment is a part of an event by leading with a purpose.
