Go Green! 8 Easy Ways to Make Your Conference More Sustainable in 2024

Sustainable conferences are no longer the exception. As individuals, we’re already making strides to reduce waste, and it’s essential for event organizers and conference goers to limit environmental impacts like CO2 emissions and waste.

Here’s how you can start:

 Choose the Right Venue

Select venues with built-in sustainable services such as public transport access, food waste recycling, transparent food sourcing, and eco-friendly lighting. Research the city or region’s sustainability programs and commitments.

Use QR codes to access digital conference resources instead of hardcopy printouts

 Go Paperless

Utilize event apps for digital ticketing, maps, and information, eliminating the need for printed materials. Replace print signage with digital screens or use permanent venue signage.

 Make it Hybrid

Hybrid conferences, blending live and virtual experiences, reduce travel emissions. Use live streaming platforms like Facebook Live or YouTube to include remote attendees and speakers, offering live interaction and recorded sessions for future viewing.

Locally sourced and seasonal always tastes better!

 Change Your Menu

Reduce food and beverage waste by consulting with caterers on servings needed and waste management. Choose local suppliers and offer seasonal ingredients, aligning with attendee preferences and reducing emissions.

 Get Outside

Utilize natural light and outdoor spaces for events to reduce emissions. Choose venues that offer open-air areas for lunchtimes, breakout sessions, and receptions.

 Swap Out Single-Use Water Bottles

Reusable water bottles make a great conference gift and are eco-friendly!

Provide refillable glass bottles with filtered water for guests, allowing them to refill their reusable bottles throughout the event. There are tons of options and can be easily branded to add a bit of personality to the event.

 Rethink the Lanyard

Think bamboo lanyards and seed paper badges! These are both sustainable and fun alternatives.  The same goes for swag bags and totes – endless ecofriendly options exist and can be easily substituted

 Be Genuine

Ensure your sustainability choices are truly beneficial. Avoid actions that create more emissions than they save, such as transporting heavy equipment for a paperless setup. Opt for multi-use items over recyclable ones and be transparent about your decisions and their environmental impact.

Taking on the task of creating a sustainable and green event can be daunting but hopefully these tips will give you a good starting point to begin making changes are easy to implement and will have long lasting effects.

Credit – The University of Birmingham