Reduce an Event

Whether for a corporate function or an outdoor dance party, events tend to be energy intensive and produce large amounts of waste. However, there are a number of easy ways you can reduce the environmental impacts of your next event.

Energy

• Select your venue and accommodation based on how environmentally sensitive it is. Are there measures in place to reduce energy consumption through efficient lighting and adequate insulation? Have low flow water fixtures been installed? Is there on-sight recycling? If not, ask why!
• Explore options to reduce energy consumption at the event. Do we need so much lighting? Is a PA System necessary?
• Purchase accredited Green Power for the duration of the event. Or alternatively, offset the electricity used with accredited projects that have a renewable energy component, such as those projects supported by Climate Positive.

Transport

• Reduce land transport kilometres travelled by car and public transport through:
  • Referring people to accommodation within walking distance of the conference venue, where possible
  • Consider video conferencing or web streaming facilities for presenters/delegates
  • Provision of a map of the area and public transport details to encourage walking/public transport use
  • Promotion of airport transfer services rather than individual taxis/ cars
  • Offset unavoidable flights and vehicle transportation for the event.

Waste

• Encourage delegates to bring their company name tag instead of using disposable tags
• Avoid unnecessary promotional material with excess packaging by using the internet and digital communications where possible. If necessary, use printers who are taking their carbon emissions into account.
• Ensure appropriate recyclable and litter disposal options

Food

• Consider purchasing organic and locally sourced food to reduce transport kilometres and agricultural production impacts
• Avoid disposable or individually-packaged single serve food products
• Opt for Vegetarian cusine, which is far less energy intensive to produce.
• Consider animal welfare through the purchase of organic meat and produce