GREEN EVENT MANAGEMENT – AN INITIATIVE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
A green event is an event that incorporates environmental consciousness with the goal of minimizing the negative impact on the environment by using fewer resources and reducing waste. The four main pillars of green events are an environmentally friendly venue, F&B options that reduce waste, communication that does not produce trash, and transportation options beyond personal vehicles.
Some of the first planning decisions you make — like the city and venue where you host the event — can make the biggest impact. So, it’s at this point, in the pre-planning stages, when event organizers have the most power to influence their event sustainability.
Major events can have a large impact on the environment, such as waste generated by plastic utensils and the extensive use of electricity to power stages, lights and speakers. And although not immediately visible, carbon dioxide from fossil fuel-powered vehicles driving to and from events can negatively impact the atmosphere.
But not all large events have to result in a detrimental effect on the environment. Through a practice known as sustainable event management, organizers of events large and small can find processes that protect the environment while creating an experience that attendees will enjoy.
As modern society becomes more environmentally conscious, sustainable event management will likely grow in popularity as well by offering rewarding opportunities for individuals who can create and organize sustainable events while looking to make a positive difference in the world.
For instance, someone might really want to attend your event but the travel distance or cost might make it impossible. If you can offer a virtual ticket this can increase your event reach and keep everyone happy.
Sustainable events can be more convenient because they adapt technologies to help attendees get outcomes more efficiently, through mobile apps and hybrid events, for example.
Sustainable event management includes steps such as providing locally sourced produce, from farm to table. It can also include the opportunity for attendees to get involved in local volunteering projects or give back to the destination. Either way, having a more sustainable approach can make the event more rewarding and worthwhile.
Sustainable events can be less risky from a planner perspective because you're anticipating shortcomings in practice that could be a source of criticism or financial loss. For example, green practices for sponsors could help them avoid a wasteful representation of their brand to attendees, which might be critiqued on social media.
Promoting your environmentally friendly methods can set your event apart from your competitors and attract new attendees who buy into your approach. Focusing more on your environmental impacts can also help to attract and retain staff.
By embracing and planning greener events you could actually be increasing your chances of investment. It could open doors to working with new clients to help meet their own CSR objectives or procurement criteria. It may also attract the attention of a new sponsor and provide unique ideas for sponsors activations.
Hence, making your events environmentally friendly not only benefits the environment but can also save money for your business or event budget. Even implementing simple changes, can make a difference to your bottom line.