Event management is a dynamic and ever-changing industry that constantly strives to meet the demands of clients and attendees while also addressing the concerns of the wider society. Sustainability has become an increasingly important issue in recent years, and event managers are recognizing the need to adopt sustainable practices to reduce their environmental impact and promote social responsibility.
Best Practices in Sustainability in Event Management
- Sustainability Planning: A sustainability plan should be integrated into the event management process from the outset. This includes identifying sustainability goals and objectives, selecting sustainable venues and suppliers, and establishing metrics to measure the success of sustainability efforts.
- Waste Reduction: Waste reduction is a critical component of sustainability in event management. This can be achieved by implementing recycling programs, providing reusable or biodegradable products, and reducing paper-based communication.
- Energy Efficiency: Event managers can reduce their energy consumption by selecting venues with energy-efficient lighting and heating/cooling systems, using renewable energy sources, and promoting energy conservation among attendees.
- Water Conservation: Water conservation is another important aspect of sustainability in event management. This can be achieved by implementing water-efficient practices such as using low-flow faucets and toilets, and reducing water usage during event setup and teardown.
- Sustainable Transportation: Event managers can reduce the carbon footprint of their events by promoting sustainable transportation options, such as public transportation, bike-sharing programs, and carpooling.
Trends in Sustainability in Event Management
- Virtual and Hybrid Events: With the emergence of new technologies, virtual and hybrid events are becoming increasingly popular. These events reduce the need for travel and can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of events.
- Sustainable Food and Beverage: Sustainable food and beverage options are becoming increasingly important to attendees. This includes sourcing local, organic, and fair-trade products, and reducing food waste.
- Circular Economy: The circular economy model emphasizes the reuse and recycling of resources, rather than the traditional linear model of take-make-dispose. This approach is gaining traction in event management, with event planners focusing on reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency.
- Sustainable Event Certification: There are now several sustainability certifications available for events, such as the ISO 20121 and the APEX/ASTM Sustainable Event Standards. These certifications provide a framework for event planners to measure and improve their sustainability performance.
- Community Engagement: Sustainability is not just about environmental impact, but also social responsibility. Event managers are increasingly engaging with local communities to promote sustainability and address social issues.
In conclusion, sustainability in event management is no longer an option, but a necessity. Event managers must embrace sustainable practices to reduce their environmental impact, promote social responsibility, and meet the demands of clients and attendees. Best practices such as sustainability planning, waste reduction, energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable transportation, along with trends such as virtual and hybrid events, sustainable food and beverage, circular economy, sustainable event certification, and community engagement, can help event managers achieve their sustainability goals and create a positive impact on society.
