How to Stage Green Events!

World Environment Day is celebrated on the 5th of June. The aim is to raise global awareness to make a positive impact on the environment and protect our planet. And if we’re honest, it’s becoming the industry standard to create eco-friendly events! You can take any event and create a fun, stylish affair with going green in mind.

Begin by looking at ways to reduce the waste your event will create. Everything from communication about the event to when the very last piece of trash is picked up should be thought about.

Here are some tips to reduce the waste for your event:Marketing and communicating your event – Spread the word about your event without adding to the landfill.

• Use electronic forms of communication when possible.
• If you must print items, use recycled post-consumer paper and limit the amount.
• Use signage that can be reused next year or at other events.

During your event – Food service is the biggest creator of waste at an event, so focus on ways to reduce your footprint here.

• Use reusable items from serving dishes to dinnerware.
• Ask the caterer or food services to buy items in bulk and with as little packaging as possible.
• Choose drink options that limit the amount of cans or glass bottles.

After your event – how the waste from your event is handled is key to keeping your event environmentally friendly.

• Ensure recyclables are sorted and collected properly.
• Keep any reusable items and ensure they are properly returned so they can be used again.
• When possible, send quality food leftovers to charities rather than putting them in the trash. Check out a fantastic organisation like OzHarvest, they are the only food rescue organisation in Australia collecting surplus food from all types of food providers including stadiums, corporate events, catering companies.

Of course there are other ways to be environmentally friendly that centre around the logistics of your event.

Transportation to and from your event by attendees as well as contractors and service providers – encourage public transportation and carpooling to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions your event adds to the environment.Use décor that won’t end up in a trash bag at the end of the night – items like potted plants, herbs, and bowls of colourful fruits can be given to guests at the end of the night.Use structures that add to your environmental goals – Stretch Tents are reusable high-quality fabric tents that take little electricity to put up, add natural ambiance to your event, and are reusable from event to event.

We can all do our part to look out for the environment and if you are frequently creating events, you have a real opportunity to set the standard in your industry for keeping your event green.