It’s no secret that planning an event takes a lot of work. It involves selecting the perfect location and setting up the technology as well as making your guests feel comfortable, and making the event memorable. Many of us forget that events can cause a lot of waste and consume a huge amount of energy.
It’s the right time to make an impact. The world is awakening to the truth that events do not necessarily have to be damaging to the environment. 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 is it important to go green for your Event?
This number could surprise you. A three-day gathering that includes 500 guests could produce 2,835kg of waste and consume almost 300,000kWh of electricity. That’s not just a big number but also an enormous chance to make improvements.
Sustainability is a major concern for today’s attendees. They are looking forward to seeing their favorite brands and businesses walking the talking. When you take steps toward 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 start by addressing waste. Even the smallest event can produce a lot of mess. There are single-use plastics as well as food waste. Also, there may be printed brochures that have been ignored by no one. With a bit of planning sustainability in waste management can be simpler than you think.
Here are some changes that will go a long ways:
1. Make the switch to compostable or reusable alternatives for plastic cups as well as other utensils.
2. Go paperless: Use QR codes or event apps instead of printed documents.
3. Donate leftovers.
4. Establish recycling stations to make it easier for people to dispose of their objects in a responsible way.
It is about progress but not perfect. Reducing or diverting the waste produced is a good thing.
Management of Energy Like A Pro (Without Making the Steps to become one)
You don’t need to be an engineer to make wise choices regarding energy. Be aware of the amount event energy consumption is the first step toward changes. And when we talk about energy management event strategies, it doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or tech it means taking note of how you make use of them.
Here are some simple ways to cut down on your energy usage:
1. Pick a venue with sustainability certifications, or renewable energy sources.
2. Displays and AV make use of LED lighting and energy efficient equipment.
3. Hosting hybrid or virtual elements will decrease the requirement for travel and places.
4. Simple is best: most elegant designs tend to require less power.
Create an experience with similar impact, but with less resources.
GreenUP Checklist – Your Secret Weapon
The GreenUP Checklist is a great tool to to get started. It breaks down each step into easy actionable steps.
This checklist is based around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals which means that you’re in line with something more than just the event itself.
You can make a difference
It’s not about perfectionism it’s about being intentional. You can aid in helping the industry change to the right direction by taking one or ten steps.
Your event will be remembered by its speakers, interactions and the aspect that it wasn’t outdated or wasteful. Therefore, go ahead, make sure you are a good leader and let your attendees know that taking care of the earth is part of the experience.