This is how sustainability works at events

We can no longer hear the topic of “sustainability”!

Whenever companies address the topic with regard to events, it often just seems to be an empty phrase.

It is usually underlined with the words “the topic of “sustainability” is very important in our company and must also be reflected in our event.”

With most events that we see, I can only say “The most sustainable event is NOT an event! “— but that is of course not the solution. Quite the contrary, people must come together, exchange ideas and learn from each other! Shared experiences inspire and drive us forward. And right now, more than anything else, events have the power to make a lasting change in people's minds and set something in motion.

Together with the entire event industry, we see it as our responsibility not only to make events as sustainable as possible, but that, at best, they keep getting all participants to think more sustainably and make a difference that really makes the world better again. “Sustainability” is therefore a matter of definition for now. However, when it comes to climate protection and climate change, there is much that events can and must contribute to:

Designing sustainable events requires a holistic approach that takes into account environmental impacts, social responsibility and economic aspects.

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Here are some approaches and measures to make events more sustainable:

1. Site selection: A venue should be easily accessible by public transport to reduce the use of private vehicles. A location that offers environmentally friendly infrastructure, such as solar energy or rainwater harvesting.
2. Sustainable materials: Disposable products should be avoided and reusable or compostable materials should be used instead. Environmentally friendly printed products or digital means of communication to reduce or completely avoid paper waste.
3. energy efficiency: Use energy-efficient lighting systems and renewable energy wherever possible. Make sure that technical devices such as projectors or sound systems save energy and are switched off when not in use. Or why not hold a meeting in daylight in the open air and avoid technology altogether.
4. Waste management: Implement effective waste management, set up recycling stations and encourage participants to properly separate their waste. Avoid using plastic where possible.
5. Sustainable food: Choose from a selection of vegetarian or vegan dishes and local, seasonal and organic products. Avoid food waste as much as possible through precise demand planning. Maybe even allow participants to take leftovers home or donate them.
6. Social Responsibility: Integrate social responsibility into an event, for example by involving local non-profit organizations or carrying out a fundraising campaign. Promote diversity and inclusion through a conscious selection of speakers and participants.
7. Sustainable transportation options: Participants should be encouraged and sensitized to use public transportation by proactively providing information on alternative transportation options. Offer bicycle parking spaces or organise carpools to reduce CO2 emissions.
8. Measurement and communication: Collect data on the environmental and social effects of the event in order to identify potential improvements. Actively communicate sustainability efforts and encourage others to actively participate These measures are just a few examples of how events can be made more sustainable. It is important that customers and organizers consciously address the issue and are constantly looking for ways to make their events more environmentally friendly and socially responsible. What is your opinion? How can you make events more sustainable?