7 simple and affordable ways to make events more sustainable
When organised with purpose and creativity, events – from team-building days to large-scale industry conferences – have insurmountable benefits. However, they can also come with a significant cost to our planet.
In an average 3-day conference, according to research by the University of Freiburg, each visitor causes circa 0.5 to 1.5 tonnes CO2 equivalents. Given the increasing focus on corporate sustainability, we need to be addressing this problem.
Why is sustainability for events important?
Aside from fulfilling ESG (environmental, social, and governance) responsibilities, corporate sustainability is also about staying competitive and adapting to a changing business environment.
It is estimated that B2B buyers are 50-70% Millennial or Generation Z. We know professionals in these age brackets are far more likely to take environmental factors into their decision-making, from where they work to who they work with. So, in terms of future-proofing business, we need to be considering the risk of not investing in sustainability. Especially in terms of brand reputation and business relationships.
Of course, a key barrier for businesses going green is concern over increased costs. In some cases, making sustainable choices can be more expensive. However, there are many simple ways to make events more sustainable without eye-watering cost increases.
Here are 7 of our most cost and carbon-efficient ways to reduce the carbon footprint of your events:
Reduce travel emissions
Typically, travel is by far the highest cause of carbon emissions for events. Selecting venues and accommodation in central locations, or within close proximity to public transport, can significantly lower this. You may also encourage attendees to carpool or use public transportation to reduce travel emissions.
Reusable badges and lanyards
Eliminate single-use plastic and invest in reusable lanyards. Opt for high-quality sustainable materials such as bamboo or cork lanyards or invest in customisable name badges. These may cost more initially but can be reused for future events. You may also consider offsetting the added cost by offering sponsors opportunities for branding on badges and lanyards.
Digital event materials
All event materials including agendas, brochures, leaflets, menus as well as business cards can be digitalised to avoid waste. The majority of attendees will be using their mobile devices anyway, so there is no need to distribute notepads and pens.
Recycling
Reduce waste by making it easier for delegates to recycle at your events. Placing clearly marked recycling bins throughout the event space will encourage recycling and draw attention to the environmentally friendly materials you have opted for.
Water stations
Encourage your attendees to bring their own bottles and use the re-filling stations at the venue. Alternatively, branded bottles (or even reusable cups) can be available for your attendees to purchase, with the income donated to good causes.
Green catering
Several approaches can enhance the eco-friendliness of event catering.
Electing for vegetarian or vegan menus notably reduces carbon footprint. If a fully plant-based menu might compromise guest satisfaction, consider emphasising vegetarian options instead.
Food wastage can be significantly reduced by opting for plated meals instead of buffets and by having your attendees pre-select their meals during the registration process. It’s also worth noting that caterers who source ingredients locally usually carry a lower carbon footprint.
Promotional giveaways
Everybody loves a goodie bag when they receive one, but how many items actually get used after the event? Be conscious of the promotional products you give away at events. Make sure they are not only useful but are ethically sourced and eco-friendly.
Gifts can be non-tangible in the form of downloadable information materials, audiobooks, subscriptions, public transport tickets or coffee vouchers. Remember, Millennials and Gen Z overwhelmingly prefer experiences to physical gifts so take a more dynamic approach and consider giveaways that create memories, not carbon emissions.
Making conferences and events sustainable
Need help making your events more sustainable?
We are international event specialists supporting clients across the globe in the planning and delivery of a wide spectrum of events, from conferences, team building and networking events to gala dinners. Dynamic Events are also dedicated to ensuring we have the most positive impact possible on our planet. Our sustainability-focused strategies, as well as our network of eco-friendly venues and suppliers, can help lower the carbon footprints of your events, whilst ensuring outstanding quality.
Get in touch to find out more
