Events are a lot of fun, but people rarely think about all the rubbish that is left in the end. Event managers on the other hand are pretty familiar with cleaning up after everyone else is gone – collecting all the abandoned badges, glasses, pens, flyers and whatever else you can think of. In this post we take a look at some measures, which should minimize the use of paper, plastic and energy, transforming your event into an eco-friendly one!
Actually, when organizing or taking part in large events there is quite a bit you can do to be more environmentally friendly. The benefit of this is not only in helping the environment, but presenting yourself and your company as a socially responsible one.
1. An eco-friendly event in an eco-friendly hall
Research the halls offered for your type of event and choose the place with the best conditions for an eco-friendly event. Consider things like AC and lighting; the more natural light, the more energy you’re saving! If the weather allows it, you can even take your event outside.
2. Save paper
Take full advantage of new media and technologies. If you’re organizing a larger event, create a website where people can register online. Avoid sending invitations by post and use email for communication. Outdoor advertising is not eco-friendly, advertise your event mainly on the Internet, it’s the cheapest and most popular way of advertising anyway! Ask speakers to send their handouts via email rather than printing copies of them.
3. Re-use
If you can’t completely avoid printing, use both sides of the sheet and gather the paper after the event. Re-use the empty pages or recycle them!
4. Use daylight
The electricity in big congress centers is not only extremely expensive, but it’s also not eco-friendly. Whenever you can – use daylight. Daylight is of course cheaper, but it also doesn’t tire out the eyes. If you have to use artificial light or AC, don’t forget to switch them off after the event is over!
5. Food
Plan the quantities of food ordered carefully, so that there is as little leftover as possible. The best option is to choose a local catering company, thus also saving on transport costs.
6. Water
Use filltered tap water instead of plastic bottles of spring water. If you are using plastic bottles, don’t forget to recycle!
7. Badges
Collect back the plastic badges – they can be reused. In case you use laces for badges, you can order bamboo ones – they are 100% decompostable.
8. Promotional gifts
If you decide to give your visitors promotional gifts, choose something original and eco-friendly – you will both be remembered for your originality and your eco-consciousness.
9. Location
In case your guests are travelling from other cities or countries, book them a hotel which is close to where the event is taking place. If the event is a mass one, organize bus transport for guests.
10. Banners and sign boards
Use the least amount of banners and signboards possible, try using screens and spotlights instead. If you still have to create banners or signboards, choose a design that can be used in consequent events as well.
If you think that collecting badges back or offering “filtered” water, as opposed to sping water, will have a negative effect on your company image, make it clear from the get-go that you have a no-go policy on wasting paper, water, electricity, food and nylon. By informing your guests in advance you will spare yourself plenty of uncomfortable questions along the lines of “Could you not afford a few bottles of water?”. Go on and make an impact as a green event manager!
The evolution of online event registration services…
Show your guests that your company is taking a step to prevent unnecessary paper waste by going digital. There is no need for mailing envelopes and using ink, which by the way is derived from sources like coal and oil. Be smart and use online event registration!
Image: Chevanon | CC0 License
