Sustainable Event Practices: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

​Sustainable Event Practices: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference; 10 Top Tips

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the environmental impact of events and gatherings. From conferences to weddings, our BIG DEAL clients are seeking ways to make their gatherings more sustainable. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple yet effective practices you can adopt to reduce your event’s carbon footprint.
 
Here are 10 easy sustainable event practices that you can implement to minimize environmental impact without compromising on the quality of your event.

Digital Invitations
 
E-invites’ moment started long before the recent push for green events. Convenient and cost-effective, digital invitations reduce waste and mailbox clutter. Not only do digital invitations significantly reduce paper waste, digital platforms allow for easier RSVP tracking and communication with guests.
 
Venue Selection
 
When shopping for venues, prioritize venues that have sustainability initiatives in place. Look for venues with LEED certification, renewable energy sources, or a commitment to waste reduction. By supporting sustainable venues, you're contributing to a larger movement towards environmental responsibility.
 
Reusable Decorations
 
Instead of purchasing disposable decorations, opt for reusable options that can be used for future events or repurposed in other ways. At BIG DEAL, we invite clients to “shop” our stock of complimentary rental decor items. Potted plants that can be sent home with guests or auctioned off, fabric banners, or LED lighting to create a festive atmosphere without generating unnecessary waste.
 
Green Transportation
 
When venue shopping, consider proximity to your public transportation options and minimize the distance guests will travel to attend. Encourage attendees to carpool, use public transportation, or bike to your event. Offer incentives such as preferred parking for carpoolers or bike racks for cyclists. By reducing the number of vehicles on the road, you'll decrease carbon emissions and promote sustainable transportation alternatives.
 
Zero Waste Catering
 
Work with catering companies that specialize in zero-waste practices. Opt for locally sourced, organic foods and beverages, and ensure that all serving materials are compostable or recyclable. By minimizing food waste and single-use plastics, you'll significantly reduce your event's environmental footprint.

​Provide Plant-Based Food Options
 
Using plant-based catering for events can significantly reduce the environmental impact by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with animal agriculture and minimizing water usage compared to traditional meat-based menus. Vegetarian and vegan guests appreciate having options to choose from at events, where they sometimes feel excluded.
 
Waste Disposal Stations
 
Set up clearly labeled recycling and compost bins throughout your event space to encourage proper waste disposal. Work with your venue or waste management company to ensure that waste is sorted correctly and diverted from landfills whenever possible.
 
Donate Leftovers
 
Coordinate with a local food bank or shelter to donate any leftover food from the event rather than letting it go to waste. Leftover decor can be reused at future events or auctioned off or sent home with guests to use and display at home. Local nursing homes and hospitals often appreciate donations of floral arrangements or live plants.
 
Sustainable Swag
 
If your event involves gift bags or other giveaways, opt for recycled, recyclable, and reusable items. Ideas we’ve used include:

• Reusable water bottles
• Tote bags made from recycled materials
• Seed packets
• Locally-sourced snacks from sustainable brands
• Aluminum water cups
• Printed wax wraps for food
• Swedish dish towels

 
End-to-End Mobile Solutions
 
By leveraging mobile apps for event planning, registration, and communication, organizers can eliminate the need for paper-based processes, such as printed agendas and tickets, thus reducing paper waste.
 
Mobile apps can also streamline logistics, allowing attendees to access event information, schedules, and updates in real-time, minimizing the need for printed materials and physical signage. Additionally, mobile ticketing and check-in solutions can streamline entry processes, reducing queuing times and minimizing the use of paper tickets or wristbands.
 
By implementing these 10 easy sustainable event practices, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your gatherings while creating memorable experiences for attendees – and even saving money. Whether you're planning a corporate conference, wedding, or community fundraiser, small changes can add up to make a big difference. BIG DEAL Company looks forward to working together to promote sustainability in the events industry and pave the way for a greener future.

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