Jilly Drywood of The Tall Trees Celebrant is passionate about more than just crafting memorable ceremonies; she’s dedicated to sustainability. She wrote the Guide To Eco-Friendly Weddings in the Cotswolds, a great article, for our Cotswolds Weddings. So here, we’ve adapted her advice to support businesses interested in hosting sustainable events.
Recognising that eco-conscious event planning extends beyond simple choices like compostable cups, Jilly provides guidance and support to navigate the complexities of creating environmentally responsible business gatherings. Drawing from extensive experience in the events industry, where she witnessed firsthand the volume of waste generated, Jilly is committed to assisting businesses in producing mindful and eco-friendly events.
Planning a green corporate event
This guide offers practical tips and resources for planning sustainable corporate events, from conferences and product launches to team-building activities and holiday parties. It emphasises that any event, regardless of size or purpose, can embrace eco-friendly practices.
Sustainable events prioritise reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimising waste, and conserving energy. This involves making conscious decisions throughout the planning process, from venue selection and catering to transportation, promotional materials, and on-site activities. While seemingly small details, like using recycled paper for name tags, contribute positively, a truly green event requires a holistic approach.
A sustainable approach to the corporate gatherings
The outdated notion that eco-friendly equates to a limited or less polished experience is simply untrue. With creativity and thorough planning, any event theme or style can be achieved sustainably. The key is proactive research, asking questions of vendors, and carefully considering the environmental impact of every choice.
Key considerations when planning a green corporate events
Venue
Inquire about the venue’s sustainability practices. Do they utilise renewable energy? What are their water conservation and waste management strategies? Do they prioritise local sourcing for their operations? A venue’s commitment to sustainability should be a primary consideration.
Catering
Discuss sourcing with caterers. Do they use local, seasonal, and organic ingredients? What are their waste reduction and composting practices? Ask for options for plant-based menus and minimise single-use items.
Transportation
Encourage attendees to use public transportation, carpooling, or cycling. If travel is required, consider offsetting carbon emissions. For local transportation during the event, explore electric vehicle options.
Marketing and materials
Minimise printed materials by utilising digital platforms for event promotion and communication. If printing is necessary, opt for recycled paper and eco-friendly inks.
On-site activities
Choose activities that align with sustainability principles. Consider team-building exercises that involve environmental restoration or community engagement. Minimise the use of disposable items and prioritise reusable or compostable alternatives.
Giveaways and promotional items
Select promotional items that are eco-friendly, ethically sourced, and genuinely useful. Consider donating to environmental charities instead of physical gifts.
Waste management
Implement a comprehensive waste management system at the event, including clearly labelled recycling and composting bins. Partner with a local waste management company that prioritises sustainability.
Striving for sustainable excellence
Planning a green corporate event requires careful consideration and effort, but even incremental steps can have a significant collective impact. By asking questions, supporting ethical businesses, and making informed choices, businesses can host memorable and impactful events that also demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. Sharing best practices and recommending sustainable vendors can encourage others to adopt eco-friendly approaches, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the business community. Online resources and directories specialising in sustainable events can offer valuable information and support. Even online research can be conducted responsibly by using search engines that support environmental initiatives. With thoughtful planning and a genuine dedication to sustainability, corporate events can be both successful and environmentally conscious.
