You’re aware that planning an event is a lot of work. It’s about finding the perfect venue and setting up the technology, making your guests feel comfortable, and making it memorable. We often forget that events can create lots of waste and use up a lot of energy.
It’s time to make a change. The world is waking up to the reality that events don’t have to be environmentally damaging. It doesn’t matter if you are organizing a hybrid conference or a small gathering offsite making sure that your event is sustainable is the best choice to achieve.
Why Green Your Event?
You might be surprised by this figure An average three-day celebration with 500 people can produce around 2,835kg of waste, and consume nearly 300000 kWh of electricity. This isn’t just huge, but it’s also a huge opportunity to improve.
Attendees today are concerned about sustainability. They would like to see their favorite companies and brands walking the ethical code. This is not just making a difference for the planet as well as showing your audience your values go beyond the stage and screen.
Eliminating the Clutter Simple Waste Management Wins
Let’s start with the waste. Even the smallest of events could create a lot of clutter. There are single-use containers and leftover food. There could also be printed brochures which have been ignored by no one. However, with a bit of effort recycling waste in a sustainable manner is easier than you think.
Here are some small changes that could make a huge difference:
1. Discard disposables and swap plastic cups and other utensils with compostable and reusable alternatives.
2. Go paperless: Use event apps or QR codes instead of printed materials.
3. Donate leftovers. If you work with caterers solicit them to give away excess food to local charitable organizations.
4. Install recycling stations: Let your guests know how to dispose of items responsibly.
It’s not about perfection more than advancement. Every waste product that you can reduce or divert is an achievement.
Manage your Energy Like a Professional (Without being one)
Making intelligent energy choices doesn’t need you to be an expert engineer. Simply being aware of the amount of 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 some easy ways to decrease energy consumption:
1. Choose venues with sustainability certifications or renewable energy sources.
2. Use LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment for AV and displays.
3. Hosting virtual or hybrid elements can reduce the requirement for travel and places.
4. Simple is the best: the most elegant designs tend to use less power.
The aim is to create an experience that’s as thrilling, yet uses fewer resources.
The GreenUP Checklist: Your Secret Weapon
GreenUP Checklists will ease your burden when you’re not sure where to begin. The GreenUP Checklist breaks down the steps for a sustainable event into straightforward and feasible steps, whether it’s working with suppliers on sustainable materials or encouraging guests to travel by public transport.
The Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations are the basis of this checklist, and you’ll know your event is in line with an even bigger goal.
You can change the world
Sustainable events don’t necessarily mean that you’re perfect but it does mean being deliberate. If you make one step or 10 steps, you’re helping to shift the entire industry towards something better.
They will be able to remember your amazing speakers, engaging interactions along with the fact that your event was not outdated or a waste of time. Show your audience how caring for the environment is part of the overall event by leading with a purpose.