Events can be very entertaining and relaxing while meeting the main objective of throwing the party: networking for business profit. Everyone loves an outing, even if it is only for a couple of hours. One other thing that events should be is sustainable. How do you make your events more sustainable? What does sustainability mean? As it concerns events, sustainability means taking positive action towards preserving our natural environment and promoting a healthy society while supporting a blossoming economy. Here are seven ways that you can ensure that your events are sustainable.
1. Go for a green approach
People feel better and more motivated when they know your brand is taking steps towards sustainability. When more people know that having sustainable events is a priority, you get repeated bookings and an increased return on your investment. Make it a key objective and select eco-friendly search engines. Many brands are jumping on the ‘green’ train and becoming paperless, serving guests fresh juices and products.
2. Make strategic improvements to your brand’s priorities
Being optimistic that your next event will reflect the green initiative is not enough; you need to take action as it concerns the environment. Plant trees and do what you can to care for people and the planet. Many venues are choosing to deal with planners who commit to sustainable practices, so there are many environmentally conscious venues. From suppliers to products, sustainability is a priority. Venues committed to sustainable practices and IACC’s Green Star certification are endorsed.
3. Choose environmentally-friendly equipment
When you choose sustainable equipment such as translation equipment from a reputable brand, it helps to increase the perception of your brand. Using the right equipment that does not give out any gas emissions to damage the earth and our environment is a priority. Therefore, other actions that can be taken are recycling sorting stations, getting a suitably filtered water dispenser, checking for smart room temperature controls, key card operated lights and technology, and making policies to ensure the use of reusable linen and towels, eco-friendly toiletries, and recycled toilet paper, etc.
4. Choose environmentally friendly meeting spaces
The furnishings used in many venues, either in part or totally, are in line with the drive for sustainable materials, which include handcrafted, recycled, or upcycled products. In addition, you can use local suppliers and artisans so that the carbon footprint can be reduced. On the upside, they also encourage growth in the local economy. When you maximize the use of natural light, it minimizes energy consumption and helps to increase the energy in the room.
5. Reduce the transportation industry’s carbon footprint
Focus on purchasing hybrid and low-emission vehicles to minimize the carbon footprint. Many transportation companies have options. You can also get buses that are powered by fossil-free fuel. Also, encourage ride-shares, and contract smaller buses and taxis to help with your remote location events. Ask your guests not to bring their cars and select venues with electric charging points as a part of the package. Make the option available for guests to join the event virtually.
6. Reduce food waste
Reducing food wastage helps to align with sustainable values. Choose menu choices that have limited packaging of non-biodegradable products—request specifically for products in recyclable containers. Choose locally sourced and organic foods, as well as sustainably sourced seafood. Make choices in line with the dietary requirements of your guests. This minimizes wastage. You can also donate the leftovers to charity. Get in touch with local charities, social enterprises, and food banks that can assist with distribution. Select plates that contain reduced portions and give special priority to plant-based food. This will reduce the emissions gotten from meat.
7. Go paperless
Campaign and enlist the buy-in of staff so that you can minimize paper at the event. Send verbal and digital reminders to guests, suppliers, and staff. Moreover, provide tickets for the events and send them digitally. Use digital whiteboards that are erasable. Use plates that you can wash or use again. Make use of signage that remains useful.
Planning environment-friendly meetings help inspire your guests and preserve the environment. Getting translation equipment that respects the green laws is creative and valuable. This contributes to a sustainable event and building a culture of practicing sustainability in everyday life.
Author: Bella Clarks
