In an effort to be seen as good corporate citizens, a number of companies have begun to take a look at the environmental impact of their conferences and special events.
But what does planning a “sustainable event” really mean? From the perspective of event planning:
- Sustainability means renewing resources at a rate equal to or greater than the rate at which they are consumed.
- Sustainability means living within the resources of the planet without damaging the environment now or in the future.
Topics that should be discussed are green office policies, energy use and carbon reduction, travel and transport, support for green initiatives, waste management, recycling, water use, environmental protection and noise pollution.
Events such as parties, conferences, and weddings often have a large impact on the environment. The invitations and decorations, the utensils and napkins, the left-over food and the mountain of garbage all have an impact on the environment.
So how can event planners large and small do their part?
Over the next few months, we’ll be providing tips on ways in which planners of weddings, conferences and even small events like birthday parties can support the green movement.
Tip #1: Provide incentives for walking, biking and carpooling to your event.
Reducing the carbon footprint of your event is a great first step in “greening” your event. Give your guests an incentive for participating. For example:
- Offer those who participate, a raffle ticket with a chance to win prizes from your sponsors.
- Work with your local public transportation office and offer discounts to your event for those who utilize the bus or subway.
- Recommend lodging for out-of-town guests in walking or short driving distances from your venue.
- Provide links to bus maps and bike routes to your event.
- Provide a bike valet on-site at your event.
Do you have other ideas to encourage walking, biking or carpooling? We’ll feature your event in an upcoming case study.
