As the world increasingly focuses on environmental responsibility, sustainability has become a top priority in the events industry. Event organisers, suppliers, and vendors are all seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and minimise the impact of large gatherings on the environment. Whether you’re planning a small corporate meeting or a large-scale festival, adopting eco-friendly practices can not only help the planet but also enhance your reputation and attract clients who value sustainability.

In this article, we’ll explore 10 practical and sustainable event planning practices that you can implement to make your next event more environmentally friendly.

1. Eliminate Single-Use Plastics

One of the most significant contributors to event-related waste is single-use plastics, including straws, cups, utensils, and plastic water bottles. Eliminating these items from your event can drastically reduce the amount of waste you generate. Instead, opt for reusable, compostable, or biodegradable alternatives. This simple step will not only cut down on plastic waste but also set a positive example for your attendees.

Sustainability Tip: Encourage attendees to bring their own reusable water bottles, and set up refill stations throughout the venue. For food service, use plant-based cutlery and compostable plates. Some event organisers even partner with local eco-friendly suppliers to offer branded, reusable bottles as part of the event experience.

2. Choose Eco-Friendly Venues

Selecting a venue committed to sustainability can make a significant difference. Look for venues that prioritise energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management. Many venues now offer green certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). These certifications ensure the venue meets strict environmental standards.

Sustainability Tip: When booking a venue, inquire about their sustainability policies. Choose venues that use renewable energy, have recycling programs, and offer sustainable catering options. Highlighting the eco-friendly nature of your venue can also serve as a selling point to clients and attendees who prioritise sustainability.

3. Go Paperless with Digital Tools

In the digital age, there’s no need for paper tickets, brochures, or printed schedules. Going paperless by embracing event apps, digital registration systems, and QR codes for check-in can dramatically reduce paper waste. This not only helps the environment but also improves convenience for attendees, who can access all event materials on their smartphones.

Sustainability Tip: Use an event app to share schedules, maps, and announcements. If possible, allow attendees to interact through the app, facilitating live polls, feedback, and digital networking.

4. Sustainable Catering and Food Choices

Catering is one of the most visible aspects of event sustainability. The sourcing, preparation, and waste management of food can all affect your event’s environmental impact. Opt for locally sourced, organic, and seasonal food, which requires fewer resources to produce and transport. Additionally, offering plant-based meals can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your catering services.

Sustainability Tip: Partner with a caterer who specialises in sustainability, focusing on reducing food waste. Work with them to develop a menu that minimises the use of high-impact ingredients, such as red meat, in favour of more sustainable options like vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. If there are leftovers, consider donating the food to local charities or food banks.

5. Implement Efficient Waste Management Systems

Waste management is crucial for any sustainable event. The key is to plan ahead and ensure that attendees can easily participate in reducing and recycling waste. Set up clearly marked recycling and composting stations throughout the venue and make sure attendees understand how to dispose of their waste responsibly.

Sustainability Tip: Partner with a waste management company that specialises in event recycling. Provide incentives for attendees who participate in green initiatives, such as discounts on future events or access to exclusive content. You can also educate your attendees on the impact of their choices and encourage them to take personal responsibility for minimising waste.

6. Eco-Friendly Event Décor

Décor is often an afterthought when it comes to sustainability, but it can have a significant impact. Instead of using disposable decorations like balloons, plastic banners, or confetti, opt for reusable or upcycled materials. Consider incorporating natural elements like plants, reclaimed wood, or biodegradable materials for a more environmentally friendly aesthetic.

Sustainability Tip: Many event organisers have begun renting décor items instead of purchasing new ones. Consider renting furniture, lighting, and signage that can be used for multiple events. You can also partner with local artists or craftsmen to create unique, upcycled decorations.

7. Carbon Offsetting for Travel

Attendee travel can contribute significantly to your event’s overall carbon footprint, especially if many are flying in from different locations. To mitigate this impact, consider investing in carbon offset programs. Carbon offsets allow you to neutralise the emissions associated with travel by investing in projects that reduce greenhouse gases, such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives.

Sustainability Tip: Offer virtual attendance options to reduce the number of people traveling to the event. You can also encourage attendees to carpool or use public transportation and highlight your carbon offset initiatives in your marketing materials.

8. Encourage Sustainable Transportation

Where possible, encourage attendees to use eco-friendly modes of transportation. Promote public transportation options, cycling, or carpooling to your event. You can even offer incentives like discounted parking for carpool vehicles or partner with local public transport providers to offer discounted event passes.

Sustainability Tip: If your event is in a city, provide a detailed guide on public transportation routes, bike paths, and shared transportation services.

9. Sustainable Giveaways and Merchandise

Branded giveaways are common at events, but many end up as waste. Instead, offer sustainable merchandise that attendees will keep and use, such as reusable tote bags, bamboo utensils, or eco-friendly notebooks. Not only will this reduce waste, but it will also leave attendees with a positive impression of your commitment to sustainability.

Sustainability Tip: Partner with eco-conscious vendors for branded materials, ensuring your event’s merchandise aligns with its green goals. Offer digital gift bags instead of physical ones, reducing waste even further.

10. Promote Your Sustainability Efforts

Communicating your event’s sustainability efforts is essential for inspiring attendees and sponsors to follow suit. Highlight your green initiatives in pre-event marketing, during the event, and post-event follow-up. This not only shows your commitment but also encourages attendees to adopt similar practices in their own lives and businesses.

Sustainability Tip: Create a section on your website dedicated to sustainability, where you outline all of the measures you’re taking. You can also include real-time statistics during the event, such as the amount of waste diverted from landfills or the amount of carbon emissions offset.

Making Sustainability a Core Part of Your Event Planning

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a necessary part of the future of the events industry. By integrating these eco-friendly practices into your event planning, you not only contribute to a healthier planet but also attract clients and attendees who value environmentally responsible events.

Implementing these green strategies can boost your event’s reputation, reduce costs, and set you apart from competitors. Start today by assessing your current event operations and taking small but impactful steps towards sustainability. Every action counts!

Next Steps

Ready to plan your next eco-friendly event? Explore our directory of sustainable event suppliers and venues on EventSupplierHub to get started today!