If you’ve been involved in planning a party you’re aware of the amount that is involved in finding the right venue and setting up the technology to ensure your guests feel welcomed, and of obviously, making it memorable. But there’s something that a lot of us overlook the fact that events can produce a massive amount of waste and use up an incredible quantity of energy.
It’s the right time to make an effort to change. People are increasingly realizing that an event doesn’t need to have a massive environmental impact. 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 go green with your Event?
This is a number that may surprise you: A typical 3-day event with 500 attendees can produce around 2,835 kg of waste and consume almost 300,000 kWh of energy. This isn’t just a huge number but also an enormous chance to improve.
Today’s attendees are interested in sustainability. They would like to see their favorite companies and brands walk the talk. When you take steps toward sustainable event planning, you’re not just helping the planet you’re demonstrating to your guests that your values go beyond the stage or the screen.
Simple Waste Management: The Most Effective Method to Reduce Clutter
Let’s start by tackling waste. Even the tiniest of events can create lots of mess. There’s single-use plastics, as well as leftover food. Also, there may be printed brochures that have been ignored by no one. With some planning, waste management that is sustainable can be achieved.
Here are some small changes that go a long way:
1. Switch out disposables and plastic cups and other utensils with recyclable or compostable alternatives.
2. Instead of printed program for events Use apps or QR codes.
3. Donate the leftovers.
4. Establish recycling stations: Make it easy for attendees to dispose of waste in a responsible manner.
The aim isn’t perfect, it’s advancement. Reduce or redirecting waste is a positive step.
How to manage your energy like a pro (Without Being One)
You don’t need to be an engineer to make smart decisions regarding your energy usage. Knowing how much energy events use is the first step to change. Strategies for managing energy in events do not have to mean cutting back on comfort or technology. It’s just important to be mindful about how you use these.
Here are some ways to decrease energy consumption:
1. You should consider places that are sustainable or that use renewable energy sources.
2. Utilize LED lighting and energy-efficient equipment for AV and displays.
3. Hosting virtual or hybrid elements will reduce the need to travel and locations.
4. Make things simple Simple setups generally require less power.
The goal is to provide an experience that’s as effective but with less resources.
GreenUP Checklist GreenUP Checklist Your Secret Weapon
If you’re unsure of how to begin, tools like the GreenUP Checklist can make life a lot simpler. It simplifies the steps needed to an event that is more sustainable into easy-to-follow steps whether that’s working in conjunction with suppliers to use eco-friendly materials or simply encouraging guests to take public transportation.
The checklist is based upon the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to make sure you’re aligning your actions with something bigger than your particular event.
You can create a positive impact
It’s about not being perfect and being a conscious participant. If you make one step or ten, you’re assisting in shifting the entire industry towards something more sustainable.
The attendees will be able to remember the memorable speakers, the enjoyable conversations, and most importantly it’s a aspect that the event didn’t seem sloppy or outdated. Therefore, go ahead, take charge with conviction and demonstrate to your guests that caring for the environment is part of the experience.