It’s no secret that planning an event is a lot of work. It’s about choosing the right venue and setting up the technology and making your guests feel welcomed, and making it memorable. However, there’s one thing that many people overlook: events can generate an enormous amount of waste and use up an impressive amount of energy.
It’s time for changes. The world is finally waking up to the reality that events don’t have to be environmentally damaging. Promoting sustainable events, regardless of whether you’re planning an offsite group or a massive hybrid conference isn’t only the right thing to be doing but also the smart thing.
Why not go green with your event?
It’s possible that you’ll be surprised by this number An average three-day celebration that has 500 participants could generate about 2,835kg of waste and use up to 300000kWh of energy. This isn’t just a staggering amount; it’s an opportunity to make improvements.
Today’s attendees care about sustainability. They want their preferred brands to be viewed as being sustainable. 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.
Simple Waste Management Strategies to Cut the Clutter
Let’s begin with the waste. The clutter that can accumulate at events is often the best gold mine. This can include items with a single use like food leftovers as well as printed materials and brochures that aren’t read by anyone. If you’re willing to make a few changes the sustainable management of waste is easier than you think.
Here are a few simple changes that could go a great distance:
1. Recycle disposables by using compostable or recyclable alternatives.
2. Utilize QR codes or event apps instead.
3. Donate leftovers.
4. Recycling stations are an excellent way to encourage attendees to recycle.
The objective isn’t perfection, but progress. The reduction or elimination of waste is a positive step.
How to manage energy as if you’re professional (without having the status of one)
Making smart energy decisions doesn’t need you to be an expert engineer. Just being conscious of the energy events consume is a first step towards change. When we talk about strategies for managing energy in events isn’t about sacrificing comfort or tech it means being aware of how you are using them.
Here are a few simple methods to reduce your energy consumption:
1. Choose venues with sustainability certifications or renewable energy sources.
2. Use energy-efficient equipment and LED lighting for your displays and AV.
3. Host hybrid elements or virtual elements to cut down on the need for travel and venue.
4. Be simple It is true that the most beautiful setups typically use less power, and they aren’t expensive.
The goal is to create an experience that’s equally powerful but isn’t as resource-intensive.
GreenUP Checklist, Your Secret Weapon
If you’re wondering what to do next Tools such as the GreenUP Checklist can make life much easier. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down the steps to create a sustainable event in straightforward and feasible steps that can be done, whether it’s cooperating with suppliers to create environmentally friendly materials or encouraging guests to travel by public transport.
This checklist is based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to ensure you are sure you are aligning yourself with something greater than the event you are attending.
You have the ability to make a difference
In the end, promoting green events doesn’t require being flawless, it’s about taking the time to plan. It is possible to help the event industry shift to the right direction by taking the smallest or most important steps.
The event you host will be remembered due to the speakers, the interaction and the fact that it did not appear obsolete or unnecessary. So, take the initiative, take charge with conviction and let your attendees know that caring for the environment is part of the experience.