If you’ve ever planned an event, you know how much goes into choosing the perfect venue as well as setting up technology to ensure your guests feel welcomed, and, of the course, making it memorable. But there’s something that a lot of us forget: events can generate a massive amount of waste and use up an impressive quantity of energy.
It’s about time we made the switch. People are becoming more aware. are realizing that events do not need to create a huge 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 consider going green at your event?
You may be shocked by this number: A typical three-day event with 500 people can produce around 2,835kg of waste, and use up to 300000 kWh of electricity. This isn’t just huge, but it’s also a huge opportunity to improve.
Today’s customers are interested in sustainability. They want their favorite brands to be viewed as environmentally friendly. If you are taking steps towards sustainable event planning, you’re more than only helping the environment, you’re making your audience aware that your values extend beyond the stage or the screen.
Simple Waste Management Strategies to Reduce the Clutter
Let’s begin with waste. Events can be goldmines of unused clutter that is caused by single-use plastics leftover food, printed brochures that nobody is interested in, and so on. With a bit of planning recycling waste in a sustainable manner is more simple than you imagine.
Here are some changes that could go a far:
1. Change to compostable or reusable alternatives to plastic cups and other utensils.
2. Make the switch to paper-free: Use QR codes or event apps instead of printed publications.
3. Donate the leftovers.
4. Set up recycling stations Let your guests know how to properly dispose of trash.
The aim isn’t perfect, it’s progress. Reduce or redirecting garbage is a good step.
Managing energy as if you’re a pro (without being one)
You don’t have to be an engineer to make the right decisions regarding your energy usage. Knowing how much energy events consume is the initial step towards change. If we are talking about strategies for managing energy during events isn’t about sacrificing comfort or technology. It’s about paying attention to how you use them.
Here are some simple methods to cut down on energy consumption:
1. Look for places that are green or make use of renewable energy sources.
2. Make use of energy-efficient equipment and LED lighting for your displays and audiovisual.
3. Hosting hybrid or virtual elements will cut down on the requirement for travel and locations.
4. Simple is the best: the most elegant designs generally require less power.
The goal is to create an experience that’s as memorable however, it’s less resource-intensive.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
GreenUP Checklists can ease your burden If you’re not sure how to begin. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down the steps to a sustainable event into easy-to-follow steps regardless of whether you’re cooperating with suppliers to create sustainable materials or encouraging guests to use public transport.
The Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations are the basis for this checklist. So you’ll know that your event is aligned with something much larger.
You are able to Impact the World
Sustainable events don’t necessarily require perfection It’s about being thoughtful. When you take a step or 10 steps, you’re helping to shift the industry of events towards something more sustainable.
People will remember the amazing speakers, the entertaining interaction, and it’s a realization that your event didn’t feel dated or unimportant. Be a leader with a purpose and demonstrate that the event is about caring for our planet.