Organising an event when sustainability is a major focus within your company: how do you go about it? It just takes some preparation and attention to detail. There are several ways to integrate sustainability into your event. Here are six important aspects you can consider as an organiser.
Of course, it starts with the location. Preferably choose a venue with the Green Key Certificate. Make sure that the event location is easily accessible by public transport or look for alternatives, such as sufficient charging stations for electric cars. It is also important that the venue itself has sustainability high on its agenda. This increases the chances of energy-efficient operations and (as much as possible) renewable energy sources being used. At Jaarbeurs you are in the right place anyway, we have set ourselves a goal: to become the most sustainable conference and event location in Europe.
Have you thought about the snacks and drinks yet? This is where you can make a big deal, after all. Very nice all those exclusive snacks flown in from all over the world... but not so sustainable. As an alternative, opt for local products, preferably organic and seasonal. This saves a lot of transport and therefore a lot of co2. In addition, consider offering vegetarian and vegan options, this is better for the environment and for your health. Win-win.
This is a very important one: after all, an event quickly gets a lot of waste. Your first thought is probably disposable crockery and cutlery. But there is more. A lot more. By looking at this carefully, you will make a huge sustainable step. Avoid using paper (brochures, floor plans etc); go digital as much as possible. At Jaarbeurs, for example, we use the Jaarbeurs App to digitally navigate and communicate with visitors.
And what about all that packaging, badges, flowers, carpet, décor etc.? Look at what you need and then ask yourself how much waste this generates. Can this be done differently? Is there a sustainable alternative?
Prepare food and drinks only when ordered. It may mean that people have to wait a while for their snack or drink, but this way you can be sure that as little as possible is left over. Still, you never avoid it completely. After all, it is difficult to plan and you don't know whether you are dealing with big or small eaters. Therefore, also think about what you will do after the event. Donate the leftover food to the food bank, for example, or offer it via the app Too Good To Go.
Without audiovisual equipment, no full event. But unfortunately, this equipment is usually not known for its energy-efficient label. Make sure you use wireless equipment as much as possible. That way you save metres of cables, transport, packaging, etc. In addition, ask yourself some quick quick fixes to make your equipment more sustainable:
- Do you work with LED lighting?
- Do you use rechargeable batteries where you can?
- Are there motion sensors for lights that don't need to be on all day?
Spread the word! A sustainable ambition becomes even more sustainable if you inspire others with it. Make sure everyone involved is aware of the sustainable goals and how you want to achieve them. Make sustainability a prominent theme within the event. For instance, encourage employees and visitors to use public transport. Provide explanations at the catering and tell on the app which sustainable choices you have made while organising the event.
If you ask us, sustainability should be on everyone's agenda. This way, we protect the environment and can reduce our negative impact on it. There are many more reasons to incorporate sustainability into your event.
Just the costs you save: by choosing sustainable measures, such as reusing materials, you save money in the long run. It also contributes to a positive image, as it shows your target audience that you are environmentally aware. This can lead to better branding and increased visitor loyalty. And finally, you contribute to awareness.
'Only together do we build a sustainable future.'
Looking for a venue that values sustainability as much as your organisation? Need help making an event sustainable? We are here for you. Get in touch via the details below. Or drop by and be inspired by our sustainable options.
Account manager Fleur
Looking for a sustainable conference venue in Utrecht? We'd love to help!
Want to know more? Contact me for all possibilities. Or come along and experience the many possibilities of our conference centre for yourself.
jaarbeurs+31(0)30 295 58 81
