Event planners, like you, are not just orchestrators of memorable moments; you’re also stewards of our planet. So, let’s dive into the world of sustainable events, one (green) step at a time.
What exactly are sustainable events?
Sustainable events are more than just a trend; they’re a fundamental mindset shift. Imagine hosting a conference, a gala, or a product launch while leaving a gentler footprint on our planet. That’s the essence of sustainability in events. But what does it entail?
Event sustainability is about balancing the three pillars:
- People
- Planet
- Profit
Yes, events can be profitable without compromising our environment or social well-being. Think of it as a harmonious dance where the environmental impact behind every decision is considered.
The power of small changes: Make a positive environmental impact with your events
You might wonder, “Can my event really make a difference?” Absolutely. Here’s how you can make a difference with a sustainable event design:
1. Conservation of resources
- Water: Encourage attendees to bring reusable water bottles and offer water refill stations on site. However, depending on your location the obvious solution for conserving resources may not be the best. In areas of drought using single-use products might have less impact than washing glasses. It's important to understand your locality and the impact that your choices have on local resources
- Energy: Opt for LED lights, solar energy and energy-efficient equipment. Ask your suppliers—many venues can offer you renewable energy at the flick of a switch, and the cost for this now is decreasing. Your event’s glow won’t dim, but your carbon footprint will
2. Waste management for events
The basic principle when it comes to material use is the three Rs: reduce, reuse recycle. The ultimate aim? A zero-waste event.
- Consider which items you can do without: Do you need multiple printed copies of the floorplan, or can you display it at the entrance and publish it online?
- What can you reuse? How about date-free, evergreen signage which you can dig out next time around?
- Consider what you can recycle and how: Can any of your event material—office supplies, flowers, furniture and badges—be donated to local organizations? Also explore recycling options for event textiles, banners and silicone-edge graphics
For example, at IMEX, we work hard to minimize materials entering the waste stream through our design decisions and long-term collaboration with our suppliers and exhibitors. We use digital projection in significant sections of IMEX Frankfurt, eliminating the need for large format printing and graphics. We have also reduced our carpet by 1,000 square meters, saving emissions equivalent to 45 standard car journeys from our HQ in Brighton and Hove, UK to Messe Frankfurt, our venue.
3. Sustainable food and drink solutions: How can you create a feast for your attendees and for the planet?
Locally sourced ingredients:
Swap imported delicacies for local treasures. Fresh produce from nearby farms not only reduces food miles but also supports local economies.
Zero-waste menus:
Imagine a buffet where nothing goes to waste. Chefs can create magic by using every edible part—think carrot tops transformed into pesto or citrus peels infused into drinks.
Plant-based options:
Consider ways in which you can nudge guests toward more planet-friendly options. Why not list the vegan options first on the menu or detail the carbon footprint of each dish?
At IMEX America, we ensure each food outlet offers at least one vegetarian/vegan option and a waterwise and low carbon option. Did you know that if every attendee selected just one low carbon main course during the show, we’d save the emissions equivalent to driving a standard fossil fuel car the distance from IMEX HQ in Brighton and Hove UK to our host city Las Vegas 18 times.
4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and community: Beyond the event venue walls
Sustainable practice isn’t confined to your event and venue, it impacts the whole community.
Volunteer engagement:
Events become catalysts for change when attendees roll up their sleeves. Whether it’s a beach cleanup or a tree-planting drive, these moments forge connections beyond business meetings.
Engage your stakeholders:
If you’re making strong sustainability strides and seeing some great results…Then shout about it. Collaboration is the watchword here. It’s only by working together and sharing best practice that we can make meaningful progress.
At our shows we invite our attendees and exhibitors to support our sustainability journey by signing up to our People and Planet Pledge to take significant sustainability steps before, during and after their time at the show. The impact of a sustainable event ripples far and wide, touching communities, inspiring suppliers, and boosting business and their employees. Sustainability isn’t a constraint; it’s an invitation to reimagine events and deliver a positive impact on our planet.
