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Discover the impact events have on the environment and how to create more sustainable events.
You're a master at creating incredible event experiences, but what if those unforgettable moments could also be good for the planet? Every event, no matter the size, has an environmental footprint. And with an increasing demand for sustainable events, going green is quickly becoming an expectation for your attendees.
We've diving into ways to plan greener gatherings, cutting carbon emissions and waste without compromising on the attendee experience. Explore the real impact and actionable steps you can take for more sustainable events.
Want to see the data? Get a clearer picture of the environmental impact your events might have.
The hidden costs: understanding event environmental impact
Many event professionals are surprised by the environmental footprint their events can leave. Let's break it down:
• Waste generation: the average event attendee contributes 1.89 kg of waste per day, with most of it heading straight to landfills. This includes everything from single-use plastics to printed materials and food waste.
• Individual contribution: each conference attendee, on average, produces around 170 kg of CO2 emissions per day. When multiplied by hundreds or thousands, the collective impact is substantial.
These statistics highlight an incredible opportunity for the events industry to drive positive change and create more sustainable event management strategies.
Actionable steps: how to plan eco-friendly events
Ready to lighten your event's environmental load? Use these practical strategies for greening your events and boosting your event sustainability initiatives:
Develop a green event plan
Start with strategy. Before venue scouting or vendor selection, create a clear sustainable event plan. Review all event processes – from procurement to post-event clean-up. Set measurable and achievable targets for reducing energy consumption, waste, water usage, and carbon emissions at every stage. A well-defined plan is the backbone of any eco-friendly event. Minimise food waste for sustainable catering
Food waste is a major contributor to an event's environmental footprint. For more sustainable catering: • Optimise orders: under-ordering buffet catering by just 10% can significantly reduce food waste. Collaborate closely with your caterers to refine attendee numbers and portion sizes. • Embrace plant-based options: offer more plant-based dishes. They generally have a lower carbon footprint and can appeal to a broader range of dietary preferences, supporting eco-friendly event food. • Donate leftovers: always have a pre-arranged plan to donate untouched, surplus food to local food banks or charities. Engage attendees in your sustainability journey
Your attendees are powerful allies in achieving event sustainability goals. Educate and encourage them: • Communicate your vision: articulate your commitment to green event practices. Let attendees know what you're doing and how they can help. • Promote green transport: encourage the use of public transport, carpooling, cycling, or walking to the venue. • Provide eco-friendly amenities: install visible water refill stations to encourage reusable bottles, ensure clearly marked recycling bins are plentiful, and eliminate single-use plastics from your event.
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Get the facts on event sustainability
Want to understand the full scope of environmental impact and equip yourself with the facts to drive change? Download our fact sheet now
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