When planning an event you may think to yourself, “Hey, it seems like this event is going to create a lot of waste…how can I fix that?” Well, not only are sustainable events effective, you can also get creative and have fun with different ways that make your event unique and eco-conscious. But how do you get started? First you want to look at all the items that go into your event. Everything from cards, menus, decor, transportation, and even the venue itself.
When planning an event with us we always like to consider reducing our environmental impact and brainstorm ways to contribute to a better future world. Here are five practical ways to make your next event more sustainable:
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Venues
Selecting a venue with sustainable practices is one of the easiest ways to reduce your event’s carbon footprint. Look for locations that have LEED or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification, use renewable energy sources, or have recycling and composting programs. Outdoor venues can also be great event options so that you can rely on natural lighting and airflow.
The City of Philadelphia has earned Platinum LEED certification including 92 out of 110 possible points for taking actions to improve sustainability and quality of life. Actions like energy efficient street lighting and promotion of initiatives for going solar have earned the city its points. Philadelphia’s established goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
2. Go Digital with Invitations
Reduce paper waste by opting for digital invitations, event programs, and tickets. Utilizing event apps or QR codes for schedules and information not only minimizes paper usage but also helps the guests experience updates in real-time. If printed materials are a “must-have,” you can choose recycled paper and soy-based inks. Compared to traditional petroleum-based ink, soy-based ink is a greener choice. It takes a bit longer to dry, but it delivers sharper colors and makes recycling paper easier.
3. Use Sustainable Catering Options
One of the biggest concerns at events is food waste since event producers always want to make sure you have enough food but not too much. One billion meals are wasted globally each year which leads to methane in landfills admitting greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. You can discuss with your caterer how to reduce less waste and consider donating leftovers. One option in the Philadelphia area is to coordinate with organizations like Philabundance, who distributes food to those in need.
4. Minimize Single-Use Plastics
You can reduce plastic waste by providing reusable or compostable alternatives for silverware, straws, plates, and cups. With the popularity of those famous cups called Stanleys and other types of water jugs, most people have their own bottles on hand at any given moment. Why not encourage guests to bring their own drink containers? Another option could be to offer reusable cups to guests as a favor to commemorate the occasion. If giveaways or swag bags are part of your event, opt for sustainable, practical gifts such as reusable tote bags, bamboo products, or digital gift cards.
5. Make Your Event Travel Sustainable
Trees4Travel is an excellent tool for event professionals and travelers alike, offering a simple yet impactful way to make trips more sustainable. Their free emissions calculator allows users to measure the CO₂ emissions generated by their travel, providing a clear understanding of each trip’s environmental impact. More importantly, it calculates the number of trees needed to offset that footprint, making it easy to pay it forward as the company will plant those trees on your behalf. For event planners coordinating large-scale gatherings or frequent travelers seeking eco-conscious choices, Trees4Travel provides an accessible way to integrate responsible travel into their plans, ensuring a greener future with every trip.
