Green Events


Green Events - 3 Important Event Planning Considerations

Going green is definitely a buzz phrase in the events industry at the moment.  But is the concept of green events fab or simply a fad?

We definitely feel that sustainability is the way of future – our clients and people in general are becoming more conscious of their carbon footprints and are consciously opting for greener options for their homes, workplaces and events.

There are a few things that event planners need to consider, however, before making a green commitment:

Ethical obligations
It’s one thing to say your event is going green but remember that these days, you have an ethical and legal obligation to deliver. 

The ACCC does monitor companies who breach laws through misleading representations and ensuring accurate marketing of environmental claims is on their hit list.  The ACCC has developed a guide to help business avoid making incorrect green or carbon emission claims. It’s lengthy but essential for all event management businesses to understand the full extent of their obligations before committing to going green.

What can be realistically delivered within your budget?
The cost of going green is definitely decreasing.  The price for recycled papers, soy inks and recyclable products is much more affordable than earlier this decade but delivering a total green commitment will have an impact on your event budget.  

Make sure that your client’s expectations regarding going green are achievable within your budget allocation – it may be a case that you roll out your green strategy in a number of affordable stages.

Can you leverage technology to aid your green cause?
Prince Charles made a holographic appearance at the Green Energy Summit in Dubai, an excellent carbon reduction in terms of avoiding air travel and the like but of course – this is extremely high end!  There are many other ways that technology can aid your green cause that are within reach of smaller budgets.  Hold webinars to avoid excessive delegate travel, have paperless white papers drawing upon tablets and mobile technology, engage in less print materials and more electronic documentations, reduce waste by encouraging exhibitors to use recyclable materials, collect and reuse name badges, use online promotional tools rather than dropping printed material and introduce carbon offset options into ticket prices.  

Here are some j2 tips for green events:
  • Minimise travel for talent, event organisers and delegates
  • Minimise haulage for equipment and supplies
  • Use "bin toppers" on wheelie bins at outdoor events
  • Consider venues with a Green Star Rating (certification based on construction criteria and running requirements of the building)
  • Choose venues within close proximity to, or encourage the use of, public transport
  • Print less and print sensibly
  • Use the web and other online technologies such as dropbox, skype and iDevices to share information, collaborate and minimize printing
  • Know your carbon footprint and set reduction goals (we love this Event Footprint Calculatoroffered by the VIC government).

We hope this has been helpful and are keen to hear about the green strategies other event companies are putting in place.

Jo and the j2 Team

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