We’ve caused a lot of harm to our planet, and it’s now up to us to protect what we have left. You can do just that by planning sustainable events.
While most of the damage came before mainstream society was truly aware that it was happening (or, at least understanding the depth of the problem), the time to halt and reverse that damage is now.
- Many new products have come on the market to offer a greener way of doing things.
- Many individuals have now taken a minimalistic approach to life.
And, slowly but surely, people are starting to get on the bandwagon and heal our ravaged world.
If you are in event planning, that means you regularly create a social situation that brings many people together. You have a great platform to promote a greener lifestyle. And, you can do it without ever even mentioning sustainability.
What is Sustainability?
Speaking of sustainability, what is it, exactly? To be sustainable, an environment needs to be able to function naturally while remaining balanced.
In other words, as a human race, we need to tackle things such as poverty and hunger, economic strength, education, and growth, etc. while also addressing such issues as climate change and environmental damage that we have ultimately caused.
To be sustainable, everything needs to balance.
Before you shake your head, know that it is up to each and every one of us to do our part restore the environment and everything in it.
Each action, each step can make a difference, regardless of how small. It is all part of moving towards sustainability.
Why Plan Sustainable Events?
So, why plan sustainable events? Think about it – if one person taking one action can make a difference, imagine what 50 or 100 could do.
If you are hosting an event for a large number of people, that is a lot of mess you can potentially cause. The waste, trash, and such from a large event can add harm to the environment.
Now, consider yourself someone who plans sustainable events. You host an event for hundreds – thousands – of people and you do so with heart. You manage to get many people under one roof without waste.
It’d be impressive and leave a lasting impression on the attendees. Good habits are a great thing to pass on to others.
If you are ready to take the wise step toward planning sustainable events, then this list is a great place to start.
1. Avoid Paper – Go Digital
After you make your guest list, stop. Do not reach for paper invitations. This may seem more classy, but it is also more detrimental to the overall health of the earth. Instead, go digital.
There are websites, such as evite, that allow you to create creative and unique digital invitations and email them to your guest list. Since nearly everyone has access to email regularly, you can reach your potential guests rather quickly. Plus, no need to wait for the returned RSVP card.
A simple click of a button will let you know whether or not to expect a guest.
2. An Ideal Location
Choosing an ideal location for a sustainable event means you will want to keep a few things in mind.
For example, hosting the event in a remote location means that your guests will all have to commute to the destination. Having hundreds of people make their way to your event using automobiles is not the most sustainable way to go.
Instead, choose a location that is in a highly convenient area. Thanks to the availability of eco-friendly tents, you can create your venue in the best location regardless of having a building. Besides, clearspan tents are so versatile, that many can be constructed on any type of ground.
Choosing a sustainable reusable tent for your next event means:
- You can have the perfect venue without causing any lasting damage.
- Make use of the outdoors as a backdrop to your event. Let it be a natural décor.
- Many tents are made of recycled fabric, making it a great investment from the get-go.
3. Food and Drinks
You don’t need to go big or go home. Instead, think smart when it comes to offering food. Sure, you absolutely need to feed your guests. But, they don’t need to feel miserably full and pack take-home bags for later.
Instead, get a general headcount and wait to finalize it until closer to the event.
As for the plates and cups that you utilize, avoid those that are not biodegradable. If you can use reusable dinnerware and drinkware, then do so. If not, be sure that your choice is one that will benefit the planet rather than harm it.
With as many guests you may have eating and drinking, you want to keep the waste to a minimum.
Donate any leftover food.
4. Manage the Waste
Think of all the party favors you have received over the years. Or, how about all those koozies, magnets, and pens you have received from conferences and work events.
- How many of those items are necessary?
- How many did you keep?
- How many took up space in your drawer for a while before you simply tossed them out?
Manage waste. Don’t waste money on these items for them to eventually find their way into a landfill.
You will want to consider the waste that comes with decorations, too. For example, paper flowers, banners, and so forth.
Is it really necessary?
You will just toss it in the trash when the night is over, right?
Instead of all of this and to help you manage the waste at your next event, consider leading with an experience rather than a take-home gift. After all, people are more likely to remember a neat experience they had.
As for decorations, consider using decorative lighting that can even be used to project your company name or message on the wall.
Conclusion
Efforts to reach sustainability are not going to diminish and it is up to you to do your part. If you are planning sustainable events, take steps to make sure that you are adding to the greater good.
Find a convenient location, rent an eco-friendly tent, and minimize your waste as much as possible.
