Sustainability is no longer just a trend – it’s a necessity. As companies strive to reduce their environmental impact, corporate events offer a unique opportunity to showcase sustainability efforts.
Here are some sustainable solutions and important considerations for eco-friendly event planning.
To ensure credibility in sustainability claims, many event companies seek out industry standards and certifications. Two key accreditations stand out in the events industry:
Accreditations like these provide transparency and accountability, ensuring that sustainability initiatives are authentic and not mere “green-washing.” Beyond environmental impacts, however, companies need to expand their focus on the broader concept of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) sustainability.
This holistic approach ensures that social equity, diversity, and governance structures are integrated into event policies for long-term impact.
When planning a sustainable corporate event, it’s essential to think beyond just the environment. Here are some considerations for a truly eco-friendly event:
Leverage renewable energy sources to power your event. This can include solar-powered lighting or energy-efficient technologies. One of the most innovative solutions today is kinetic energy dance floors. These floors convert the movement of attendees into energy, which can power small devices like photo booths or phone charging stations, adding a fun yet functional twist to large-scale events.
Choosing a venue that prioritises sustainability is crucial. Look for venues that use renewable energy, have robust waste management systems, and are certified by organisations like ECOsmart. These venues often have eco-friendly infrastructure and policies in place, from efficient lighting to water conservation systems.
Reduce, reuse, and recycle should be the mantra for any eco-conscious event. Implement waste segregation at the event, and work with vendors who use sustainable materials. Offering digital alternatives, such as electronic tickets and QR codes, can also help reduce paper waste.
Source locally-produced, organic food, and consider plant-based menu options. Reducing food miles and offering sustainable choices not only lower your carbon footprint but also support local communities. Ensure that any surplus food is donated to minimise waste.
Encourage attendees to use public transportation, carpool, or cycle to the event. For international attendees, work with carbon-offsetting programs to balance the environmental impact of flights. Providing shuttles that use electric or hybrid vehicles is another excellent step towards reducing emissions.
Minimise the environmental impact of event materials by choosing eco-friendly swag and recycled products. Avoid plastic and focus on useful, sustainable items such as reusable water bottles, bamboo cutlery, or digital guides instead of printed programmes.
These considerations, combined with a dedication to transparent reporting and adherence to internationally recognised standards, will not only reduce the environmental footprint of corporate events but also build a positive reputation for businesses committed to true sustainability.
Here are a few policies from venues and hotel groups that might help your decision making process:
Hilton Hotels has an ESG Policy and report on previous years’ objectives. Highlights of their policy include integration of EDG across the whole company, strategic ESG objectives, and its Travel with Purpose 2030 framework.
Marriott Hotel’s ESG Policy has more ambitious goals with six objectives relating to volunteering, carbon intensity and waste reduction to complete by 2025.
Wyboston Lakes Resort is an environmentally-friendly venue with goals of being carbon neutral by 2040, ‘Room2Grow’ and ‘Zero to Landfill’ initiatives.
The ICC Wales has won RICS Social Impact Awards 2020 and has objectives to communicate and train employees in sustainable practices, developing a positive culture towards sustainability, and engaging with the local community.
Ashorne Hill has recently been accredited for its contributions to sustainable development. Some of the key initiatives implemented include an energy saving laundry system and minimising food waste; a ‘Too Good To Go’ food diversion scheme for staff members.
Silverstone has become the first motor racing venue to join the UNFCCC Sports for Climate Action programme. The venue also signed joined hundreds of other venues across the world in signing the Net Zero Carbon Events pledge.
The QHotels Collection’s new sustainability programme focuses on three key areas: People, Places and Planet. To remain transparent and accountable, The QHotels Collection has made several sustainability promises, including establishing a sustainable procurement and purchasing policy.
Yorkshire Events Centre walks the sustainability walk with solar panels, pump house, efficient waste management, and a vast rural landscape where it supports local wildlife.
These diverse destinations reflect the incredible variety of event venues available across the globe. Each city offers its own unique atmosphere, and the venues we’ve selected showcase the best of what these destinations have to offer. Whether you’re looking for modern luxury, historical grandeur, or something truly unique, there’s a venue here for every event.
Are you ready to start searching for a sustainable venue for your next event? Start planning today see the amazing venues available through EDGE.
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