If you’ve had the pleasure of planning an event, you know how much goes into finding the perfect location in addition to setting up equipment, making sure your guests are greeted by a warm welcome and of course, creating a memorable event. But here’s the thing many people overlook the fact that events can produce massive amounts of waste and consume an eye-opening amount of energy.
It’s high time to make an alteration. In increasing numbers, people are recognizing that events don’t necessarily have to leave an enormous environmental footprint. 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 for your event?
It’s possible that you’ll be surprised by this number The typical three-day event that has 500 participants could generate around 2,835kg of waste, and consume around 300000kWh of energy. This is not just an astonishing amount, but also an opportunity to make improvements.
Sustainability is an issue for attendees of today. They want to see that their favorite businesses and brands live up to their claims. When you adopt steps towards sustainable event planning, you’re not only helping the environment, you’re telling your guests that your values extend beyond the screen or stage.
Simple Waste Management Strategies to cut down on the clutter
Let’s start by tackling the issue of waste. The junk that builds up at events is often the best gold mine. It includes items that are used only once like food leftovers along with printed materials and brochures that aren’t read by anyone. But with a little intention sustainability in waste management can be much easier than you think.
Here are some changes that could go a far:
1. Replace disposables with compostable, or recyclable alternatives.
2. Use QR codes or other event apps instead of printed programs.
3. Give away leftovers. If you work with caterers, ask them to give away excess food to local charities.
4. Recycling stations are an excellent opportunity to motivate people to reuse.
Progress is the goal, not perfection. Every waste product you eliminate or redirect is an accomplishment.
Managing Energy Like A Pro (Without Being One)
You don’t need to be an engineer to make the right decisions regarding your energy usage. Being aware of how much power events use is a first step towards change. Energy management strategies for events do not require the loss of comfort or technology. It’s just important to be mindful about how you use these.
Here are a few easy ways to decrease energy consumption:
1. Select venues that have sustainability certifications or renewable energy sources.
2. Make use of LED lighting and energy efficient equipment for displays and AV.
3. You can hold hybrid or virtual events to lower the expense of travel and venue.
4. Simple is best. The best setups use less energy.
The goal is to create an experience that’s just as impactful however, it’s less resource-intensive.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to help you get started. It breaks down every step into clear actionable steps.
The Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations are the basis for this checklist, which means you’ll know that your event is tied to something far more significant.
You are able to make a difference
It’s not about achieving perfection, but about being deliberate. When you take a step or ten, you’re assisting in shifting the way events are run to make it more sustainable.
The attendees will be able to remember the memorable speakers, the enjoyable interactions, and of course it’s a reality that your event did not appear a waste or old-fashioned. Therefore, go ahead, lead with purpose and demonstrate to your guests that taking care of the earth is an integral part of your event.