I'm so excited for you to finally get to read this post. I'm well aware this is unlike my regular topical structure. So, let me explain. I recently heard a lecture in my Meetings & Group Business course that highlighted the importance of sustainability within the events industry. I was immediately inspired to do some research, and come up with some tips and tricks to encourage sustainability in event planning.
The events industry has had a major impact on the environment, specifically regarding waste and energy consumption. Unfortunately, sustainability is often not the main goal when organizing and planning events.
But, there is hope! I learned that over the past couple of years, the events industry is beginning to place an increased focus on sustainability.
What does this have to do with you and I?
We all plan events, whether small or large, right? In fact, I'm currently planning a graduation party, alongside my mom, as I will be graduating from undergrad this upcoming May *insert applause* But, that's besides the point. The point is that when planning events, we so quickly navigate to disposable plastics, non-ecofriendly decorations etc.
My hope is that through following my blog posts, you will recognize that as a problem now. We rarely consider the effects of how much waste we create when event planning. According to MeetGreen, a sustainable event management agency, the average conference produces 4.17 lbs. of waste per attendee, per day. Yikes!
By planning a sustainable event, you can minimize much of your environmental impact. Below I've listed some helpful tips and tricks to enrich your next event through sustainable planning.
Tips and Tricks For Sustainable Event Planning
Sustainability has to become a priority especially in the pre-planning stages of your event. If it isn't, then you'll quickly find yourself losing sight of sustainable practice. Begin by outlining your goals, finding an eco-friendly location and determining the region's waste and recycling mandates.
If you start here, you're more likely to keep up with sustainable practice throughout. After you've done this, the tips below will be entirely more helpful.
Go Digital
Traditionally, events contribute to huge paper waste. More often than not, invitations, flyers, event programs etc. all end up in the trash once the event comes to an end. There is a fairly simple solution: practice sustainability by eliminating paper waste with digital communication. There are so many options for digital invitations like Greenvelope, a company that allows you to design online invitations. Another bonus to this particular platform is their free
RSVP tracking software. It's a win-win.
Use eco-friendly party supplies
Zero waste is becoming increasingly important to people. Etsy has recently seen more interest in eco-conscious supplies. Party City has even devoted a section of their department to eco-friendly tableware. Loveworks LA, a company specializing in eco-friendly weddings gives this advice: "Be mindful of the products you’re using, and use what you have, borrow what you don’t and buy used what you must." Hannah Allen, a local wedding blogger,
recently published an article on her blog all about
eco-conscious supplies and decorations.
Click here to learn more.
Opt for sustainable vendors
An event just isn't the same without a good, hearty meal. The vendors you choose will either make or break your eco-conscious event. One way to decide on a caterer is to ensure all their food is locally sourced, or home-grown. Food trucks are a great example of sustainable vendors; however, you will need to make sure they aren't using disposable plastics---because that would defeat the purpose of employing a sustainable
vendor.
The choice is yours
It's honestly all up to you to set the parameters of your expectations. There's no law requiring you to plan eco-conscious events, but it's just another step to take in crafting a green world.
In reality, so many other factors affect sustainability. While changes might not all happen overnight, they can definitely begin with you and I. We can all effect meaningful changes by making small adjustments to our lifestyles, and sustainable event planning is one of many ways to do just that.
What are your thoughts on eco-conscious event planning? Feel free to leave a comment below about any other tips and tricks you might have on planning an eco-friendly event. I'd love to hear what insight you might have! Till next time :)
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