You know that planning an event is a lot of work. It involves finding the perfect venue as well as setting up your technology as well as making your guests feel welcomed, and making the event memorable. Here’s something many of us do not realize that events can generate massive amounts of waste and take an enormous amount of energy.
It’s the right time to change. The world is awakening to the realization that events don’t have to be environmentally damaging. It doesn’t matter if you organize a hybrid conference or a smaller group offsite organizing a sustainable event is the best choice to make.
Why is it important to go green for your event?
This is a number that may shock you An average 3-day event that has 500 participants can produce about 2,835 kg of waste, and consume around 300,000 kWh in energy. This isn’t just an impressive number, it’s also a huge chance to make improvements.
Sustainability is a major concern for the present-day attendees. They want to see proof that the brands and companies they love live up to their claims. If you are taking steps towards sustainable event management, you’re not just helping the planet you’re making your audience aware that your values transcend the stage or the screen.
Simple Waste Management: The Best Method to Reduce Clutter
Let’s start with the trash. The pile of garbage that is left at events is often an excellent source of gold. This can include items with a single use such as food leftovers along with printed materials and brochures no one ever reads. With a bit of planning sustainability in waste management can be much easier than you think.
Here are some changes which can make a major change:
1. Choose compostable or recyclable 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 leftovers If you’re working alongside caterers, you can arrange to donate surplus food items to local charitable organizations.
4. Set up recycling stations Let your guests know how to dispose of their waste responsibly.
It’s not about perfectionism that is important more than advancement. Reducing or diverting the waste produced is a good thing.
How to manage energy as if you’re a pro (without being one)
Making smart energy choices doesn’t require you to be an engineer expert. Knowing how much energy events consume is the first step toward changing. And when we talk about energy management event strategies, it doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or tech it means being mindful of how you use them.
Here are a few easy ways to decrease your energy use:
1. Choose venues that have been certified as sustainable or using renewable energy sources.
2. Use LED lighting as well as energy-efficient equipment for AV and displays.
3. Hosting virtual elements or hybrid elements can reduce the requirement for travel and places.
4. Simple is best: the most elegant designs tend to use less power.
Create an experience with the same impact but using less resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to start your journey. It will break down the steps required to an environmentally friendly event into clear, doable actions whether that’s working with vendors on eco-friendly materials or just encouraging guests to take public transport.
This checklist is based around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals which means that you’re aligning with something bigger than just your event.
You Have the Power to Make a Difference
It’s not about achieving perfection and being a conscious participant. No matter if you only take one step or ten, you’re assisting in shifting the entire industry towards something more sustainable.
They will remember your great speakers, engaging interactions and the fact that your event was not outdated or inefficient. Don’t hesitate to lead with purpose and demonstrate to your guests that caring for the planet is an integral part of your event.