5 Simple Steps For Sustainable Events
- May 27, 2024
In 2024, the desire for eco-friendly events and sustainable event planning is greater than ever. Not only is it kinder on the environment, it enhances your guests’ experience to know they are also reducing their environmental footprint.
There are dozens of ways you can make your event greener. Though going green can seem like yet another job on the long list of event planning tasks, we promise that following these 5 simple steps will have a huge impact.
1. Choose a sustainable venue
When scouting for locations, check if the venue is LEED-certified, if they use renewable energy, or have waste-reducing initiatives. You can further reduce emissions by choosing a location that is easily accessible by public transport, or by providing a shuttle bus for guests.
2. Choose a green caterer
At most events, the food preparation and service is the most significant source of energy consumption and waste. Look for caterers dedicated to sustainable practices such as using local and seasonal foods, using less red meat, and ensuring food waste is composted rather than thrown away.
3. Use eco-conscious vendors
Be selective when sourcing vendors. Ensure they are local and environmentally conscious. At Pedersen's, we wash all our rentals in a high efficiency washing and drying system. These machines dramatically reduce the amount of water and detergents needed to meet health and safety standards. Furthermore, the use of wheels and lids to move all of our glassware allow us to eliminate the need to bag our glass racks. Not only does this eliminate the need for plastic but it helps our clients save time when setting up their event.
4. Minimize paper waste
Reduce your paper waste by going digital with your invites. For conferences, consider using a mobile event app to replace agendas, programs and business cards. At the event, use whiteboards or chalkboards for signage rather than printed signs that may be branded and difficult to reuse.
5. Reduce plastic waste
If your event will see guests wearing name-badges or lanyards, encourage them to return them so they can be repurposed. Make sure any swag is made from sustainable materials. Say no to single-use plastic bottles, and opt for water refill stations with reusable glassware instead.
Join the sustainable event planning trend, and employ these 5 simple steps to reduce the environmental impact of your next event!
