Events have a lasting (and hopefully positive) impact on those who attend. But there is a darker side to the events industry – from supplies to transportation, and everything in between, it is easy to become wasteful with resources and have a negative impact on the world around us. Events can continue to roll forward without hurting our environment and communities as long as we prioritize sustainability in the events industry moving forward.Â
Sustainability in the events industry is more than just a trending issue. More and more, attendees are demanding that sustainability be a major and vital part of the events they attend.Â
Event planners should consider 2 key aspects of sustainability in planning for an event:Â
- Environmental sustainability, which refers to the practice of managing natural resources in a way that supports the needs of the present and future without harming the environment, andÂ
- Social sustainability, the focus on the well-being of people and communities, and the creation of inclusive societies
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Both environmental and social sustainability require a focus on what we have and making the world a better place. Here are a few tips to consider as you plan your events to be more environmentally and socially sustainable.
Environmental Sustainability
- Waste reduction: Things like paper maps and schedules, single use paper plates and plastic utensils, and uneaten food can quickly fill up trash cans to capacity. By implementing robust recycling and composting systems, using reusable items instead of single-use plastics, serving smaller food portions, and minimizing printed materials at events, we can reduce our unnecessary waste and protect our future.
- Energy efficiency: It takes a lot to power up an event. We need lights, WiFi, and so many other things to make sure our events run smoothly. But by choosing venues with energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and utilizing renewable energy sources where possible, we can decrease our carbon footprint.Â
- Transportation management: Environmental sustainability requires thought and effort before events even begin. Consider encouraging attendees to use public transportation or providing shuttle services with low-emission vehicles so that your attendees can make it to your event while also helping the planet.Â
- Example: The Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference reduced attendee travel emissions by 31% by offering incentives for eco-friendly transportation options for their event attendees.Â
- Location: The further attendees need to travel in the first place, the greater the environmental impact. Hosting an event in a remote location means that it will take more expended energy for your attendees to get there. Consider choosing event locations with easy access instead of remote locations. Or, instead of one giant event, consider planning multiple localized events where your attendees do not need to travel as far and can take more energy efficient methods of transportation.Â
- Example: Databricks, Twilio, Autodesk all put on world tours that focus on catering to local clientele.Â
- Sustainable sourcing: Your vendors also play a big role in environmental sustainability. We want to stress the importance of selecting vendors that prioritize environmentally friendly materials and practices for event decor, catering, and merchandise.Â
- Example: Companies like Nike, mWISE, Workday, and Ringcenteral have implemented the use of plantable event badges, pencils made of plants, sustainable event backpacks, and plant paper to minimize their impact on the environment while providing the needed materials at their events.
Social Sustainability
- Accessibility: We want our events to be comfortable places for all. This can mean choosing venues that are disability friendly, providing digital accessibility for participation in an event, arranging for ASL or other language interpretation, or offering a variety of food options for those with dietary restrictions.Â
- Example: See our recent blog post about an event with Japanese-to-English translation. Â
- Community engagement: There are so many ways to involve your community in your upcoming event. Hire a local restaurant or food truck to cater your event. Look for local decorators to bring your event venue to life. Hire local photographers and videographers to capture the moments of your events. Book local DJs and bands as entertainment for your attendees. By supporting local businesses and initiatives, and incorporating local talent into the event, you are showing your community that you care.
- Diversity and inclusion: Your attendees will feel the most comfortable at events where they can share some common ground with others at the event. By inviting a diverse group of attendees and presenters to your events, you can ensure that there is something (and someone) there for everyone.
Sustainability Experts
Sustainability doesn’t have to be only a part of your events: it can also be a part of your day-to-day life in your work. In addition to proactive methods of sustainability, consider some retroactive practices that can help the planet. A few examples include:
- Brella is a long-standing partner with One Tree Planted. Brella is committed to planting a tree for every 100 meetings booked on their app.
- PURPOSE Net Zero’s services allow companies to incorporate their tech in your registration platform and give attendees the option to purchase verified carbon offsets.
Take away
BW Events Tech is committed to helping you plan environmentally and socially sustainable events. Want to learn how? Contact us today!
