Planning an event that aligns with sustainability goals doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or branding. By integrating eco-conscious practices at every stage, you can create memorable experiences while limiting environmental impact. Here are ideas to guide you through planning a sustainable event in terms of materials and waste.
- Reusable and Sustainable Materials
Badges & Accessories
Event badges and accessories are staples of any gathering. Instead of single-use options, choose reusable badges (erasable like a whiteboard, or digital) or those crafted from recyclable, biodegradable, or recycled materials. Sustainable lanyards, neck wallets, and ribbons made from eco-friendly materials provide ample branding opportunities while staying environmentally responsible.
Badge Collection Program
To minimize waste, set up a badge collection initiative:
– Option 1: Place return boxes for the badges at the exit(s)
– Option 2: Position staff at exits to remind attendees to return their badges.
– Option 3: Use a deposit system, where attendees receive a refund upon returning their badges, coupled with education on the environmental benefits.
- Embrace Digital Solutions
Digital Invitations
Save paper and reduce your carbon footprint by sending electronic invitations. Encourage attendees to download a PDF version of their tickets including necessary event information and schedule, and delete unnecessary emails to minimize digital storage emissions.
Event Program
Ditch printed programs in favor of a single QR code placed in a few strategic spots at the venue, that links attendees to a digital version of the event itinerary.
Goodies & Networking
Replace paper goodies with digital alternatives and encourage the use of a networking app for exchanging contact information and business cards. A dedicated app can also simplify event communication, providing attendees with schedules, updates, and networking tools all in one place.
- Green Decor
Live Plants Over Cut Flowers
Swap out cut flowers or such, for live plants such as ferns, monsteras, or dragon trees. These options not only look vibrant but can also be reused or donated post-event.
Minimal Printed Decor
Reduce the use of printed decorations and opt for recyclable or digital roll-ups that can be reused for future events.
- Waste Management
Catering
Adopt a no-waste policy for event catering:
– Use reusable plates and cutlery to eliminate disposable waste. We are proud to have offered reusable plates and cutlery for nearly as long as MAI exists!
– Serve food “bit-by-bit” to avoid excess and ensure leftovers can be donated or composted.
– Provide compost bins specifically for food waste.
Sorting Stations
Strategically place clearly labeled waste sorting stations to encourage attendees to separate recyclable, compostable, and non-recyclable waste.
Bold Initiatives
– Ban single-use plastics entirely.
– Provide reusable bottles or glasses to attendees and set up drink refill stations. We at MAI offer such an option, through various affordable formulas depending on budget and drink assortment.
- Engage Participants
Communicate Sustainability Goals
Share your event’s sustainability objectives with your attendees. Encourage them to actively participate in waste reduction efforts and support initiatives like badge returns and waste recycling.
Reminders for Attendees
Regularly remind participants about waste sorting and other eco-friendly practices through signage, announcements, or an event app.
- Sustainable Gifts and Goodies
Eco-Friendly Prizes
Opt for raffle prizes such as gift cards from eco-conscious businesses or charitable organizations. These options promote sustainability and align with responsible consumption.
Sustainable Giveaways
For event swag, select items made from sustainable materials such as bamboo utensils, or seed paper products, or give away reusable water bottles and notepads (hint hint at branding!).
In a nutshell, by incorporating these actionable steps, you can create experiences that are both impactful and environmentally responsible. Sustainability doesn’t have to be a limitation—view it rather as an opportunity to innovate and lead by example. Whether it’s reducing waste, embracing digital solutions, or using sustainable materials, every effort counts toward a greener future.
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