Have you thought about how your organisation will take part in Earth Day 2024? With a theme of Planet vs Plastics, Earth Day ‘24 will take place on 22nd April and will be marked by organisations all over the world. Right now, climate friendly practices and sustainability more relevant than ever. At Attendable we are committed to doing business in the most sustainable way we can. This means being conscious of the environmental impact of our actions and continually seeking ways to improve. We want to lead the way in the events space, making environmental impact a key consideration, not an afterthought.
Take a moment to think about the last event you attended. Chances are there were a lot of single use items around, and waste created. The good news is that there are so many innovations out there to help turn the tide. At Attendable we believe that the intention to change and take a first step can make an impact. Here are a few ideas of how to make your next event more climate friendly to get you started:
- The European Commissions top tip for hosting a greener event? Consider if any element could be held online. This might mean a hybrid element to your event (if you aren’t sure where to start with all things webinar, Attendable can help) but it could also mean streamlining the in-person experience. One trend we have noticed is the growing number of events where registration and ticketing are managed online. If you can ensure this is done using accessible technology, it’s a really simple step to reduce the volume of printing.
- When physical badges or ID are required, why not give cork or bamboo lanyards a try? There are so many great options available, and it makes sense to promote your brand and sponsor logos in an environmentally conscious way. Similarly, banners and signage can really make your event venue special. Consider sourcing re-usable items where possible and recyclable materials as a minimum.
- When considering your sponsors, caterers, and events agency, be open about your sustainability goal and make sure this is a shared aim. Can caterers offer locally produced items or non-plastic food service? Can your event agency find the most eco-conscious venue and practical work arounds to traditional event practices that can be wasteful? Ask these questions from the start.
- Does your venue provide recycling stations? Are they clearly marked and at an accessible level? If not, ask!
- Can people get to your venue using accessible public transport? Promote how to do this on your joining instructions and share these online.
- Use a virtual swag bag as an alternative to a physical one, such as Attendable innovation, Swagable. Our virtual SWAG bag enables event organisers and sponsors to avoid the waste of (often disposable or unused) branded merchandise items, and to offer delegates more environmentally conscious SWAG. According to MeetGreen “A standard in-person event can use up to 36,000 pieces of paper, most of which are not recycled accordingly. By choosing to offer virtual swag – and choose to run your event in a digital format – you eliminate up to 170kg of CO2 emissions”.
At Attendable we understand that “All over the world, sustainability is becoming a high priority for consumers, clients and employees. People want to know their work and money will go towards a business that supports the community, and that works to lessen their impact on the environment.” (Sustainable business guidance, https://www.earthday.org/).
Contact us today to take a look at our virtual swag bag and to discuss how our expertise could mean that your next event is your most inclusive and sustainable yet.