You know that planning events is a ton of work. It’s about choosing the right venue and setting up the technology to make your guests feel welcomed, and making it memorable. Here’s something many of us aren’t aware of the fact that events generate massive amounts of waste, and require massive amounts of energy.
It’s time to make an alteration. The world is finally waking up to the truth that events do not necessarily have to be damaging to the environment. Promoting green events, whether you’re planning a small offsite team or a huge hybrid conference, is not just the proper thing to do but also the smartest choice.
Why should you go green for your next event?
This number might surprise you. A three-day event that includes 500 guests could generate 2,835 kilograms of waste and use nearly 300,000kWh of electricity. This is not only huge, but it’s also an enormous chance to make improvements.
People today are worried about sustainability. They want to see evidence that their preferred brands and businesses are living up to their claims. When you plan a sustainable event that is sustainable, you will not only benefit the environment, but also show your audience that you have an agenda that goes beyond the screen or the stage.
Cutting the Clutter: Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s start by tackling waste. The clutter that can accumulate at events is usually a goldmine. It includes items that are used only once, food leftovers or printed materials. It can also include brochures that aren’t read by anyone. But with a little intention, sustainable waste management is easier than you think.
Here are some small changes which can make a major difference:
1. Replace disposables with compostable, or recyclable alternatives.
2. Use QR codes or other event apps instead of printed publications.
3. Donate leftovers. If you’re working with caterers you can ask them to give away excess food to local charitable organizations.
4. Recycling stations are a fantastic way to encourage attendees to recycle.
It’s not the perfection that counts however, it’s the advancement. The reduction or elimination of garbage is a good step.
Managing energy as if you’re an expert (without having the status of one)
It doesn’t require an engineer to make intelligent decisions regarding your energy usage. The first step towards making changes is to just be aware of the amount of power that events use. And when we talk about energy management event strategies isn’t about sacrificing comfort or technology. It’s about paying attention to how you use them.
Here are a few simple methods to reduce your energy consumption:
1. Look for the possibility of locating a venue that is certified sustainable or use renewable energy.
2. Use LED lighting as well as energy-efficient equipment for displays and AV.
3. You can organize virtual or hybrid events in order to lower the cost of travel and venue.
4. Simple is best: the most elegant configurations generally require less power.
The idea is to create an experience that’s as effective but with less resources.
GreenUP Checklist, Your Secret Weapon
If you’re unsure what to do next Tools such as the GreenUP Checklist can make life much easier. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down the steps to a sustainable event into simple and achievable steps for any event, whether that’s cooperating with suppliers to create green materials or urging guests to travel by public transport.
This checklist is based on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals So you can be sure you’re aligning with something bigger than just your event.
You Have the Power to Change the World
It’s not about perfection, but about being deliberate. Whatever step you take, you are aiding in shifting the industry toward a better future.
They will be able to remember your amazing speakers, the fun interaction, as well as the fact that the event was not outdated or inefficient. So go ahead, make sure you are a good leader and show your guests that caring about the planet is a part of the event.