The average event wastes up to 20% of the food it produces, according to industry reports—and it’s making headlines for all the wrong reasons.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to make your events more sustainable and generate positive feedback. We share some proven methods in the newsletter below.
How Organizations Are Leading the Way in Sustainable Event Planning
Experts and researchers have noted a substantial increase in consumer expectations and demands regarding corporate social responsibility (CSR) in recent years.
That’s why more businesses, companies and associations have underscored the significance of social responsibility in building and maintaining their brand’s reputation.
“At CMA, we believe that every project is an opportunity to drive meaningful change, not just for our clients but for the communities and industries they serve,” says Kelsey Tweedly, CMA’s Vice President of Business Integration. “Whether it’s through innovative strategies or sustainable practices, we’re committed to elevating brands and making an impact across every facet of our clients’ operations.”
But where is the best place to start?
Lynn McCullough, CMA’s Event Director, builds on this, saying that conferences and events provide ideal opportunities to showcase social responsibility by offering the chance to cut costs and reduce waste.
“More and more of our clients are being asked to take the lead in making their events more sustainable,” she says. “From venue selection to waste reduction and digital solutions, they’re setting new standards for sustainable event planning.”
It’s also an opportunity to introduce, renew or reinvigorate their brand in the eyes of your stakeholders and attendees, she adds.
And there are simple ways to make a difference.
“Start with small changes and build up to bigger initiatives,” McCullough says.
Examples include:
- Reduce Single-Use Items: Eliminate disposable to-go cups and opt for reusable dishware. “Ask hotels to use actual dishware,” she says.
- Reuse Signage: Invest in reusable signage with customizable sections to reduce waste. “Incorporate your organization’s branding on signage and include sections that can be easily and sustainably updated each year with the conference theme,” McCullough says.
- Opt for Recycled Materials: Choose recycled lanyards and badges to minimize your event’s environmental impact.
- Recycling Programs: Even without a LEED-certified venue, you can still prioritize recycling. “You can work with your hotel to ensure recycling programs are in place and bins are available around the meeting space,” McCullough says.
- Add Giveback Opportunities: Incorporate activities like beach cleanups to engage attendees in sustainable actions or encourage them to donate to a cause in the organization’s name.
To make a greater difference, consider the following:
- Sustainable Venue Choices: Choose eco-friendly venues with energy efficiency, water conservation, and recycling, often opting for LEED-certified locations to prioritize sustainability.
- Waste Reduction Strategies: Reduce waste by eliminating single-use plastics, using biodegradable materials, and transitioning to digital platforms—such as mobile apps, virtual schedules and e-signage—which minimize the need for printed materials. This shift can reduce waste by 30%. Leftover food can often be donated to local organizations.
- Best Practices: Small steps like eco-friendly catering, promoting public transport and using sustainable merchandise help your organization adopt greener practices.
Don’t Forget to Tell Your Audience
McCullough emphasizes the importance of educating attendees on sustainability: “Take the opportunity to describe the measures you’re taking,” she said. “Whether through e-blasts or a mobile app or another method, it’s important to communicate how the event is reducing and being sustainable.”
Take the Next Step with CMA
Are you ready to lead your organization toward more sustainable event planning? Connect with us today to learn how we can help you implement these strategies and more.