Creating Sustainable Event

Creating Sustainable Events, Submitted by The Logistik Group of London                               

As consumers we believe we’re doing a good job at being environmentally friendly. We’re even up on our soapboxes on a daily basis to declaim brands who aren’t being sustainable. But do we actually know what’s going on?      

It’s easy to turn up at an event, having made no effort to travel with a companion or on public transport, look at the glitz and glamour and start berating the organisers for not being sustainable. It’s a bit like going to a friend’s wedding; we always know a better way it should have been done. Or so we think for unbeknown to the event delegate behind the scenes is a hive of activity.

For the event organisers this is a useful insight. Delegates at previous events having submitted feedback have actually taken part in shaping the sustainability of the next one. The organisers now know how far they need to extend their sustainability efforts. In this way then, doing a sustainable event, for example a conference for 2000, can be likened to herding sheep.

It’s not easy though, a lot of companies in the event management  industry are still learning. Whilst it can be daunting, even small changes can make a big difference.  Making small steps to improving sustainability in your events could save you money, do your bit for the environment and create a warm inclusive atmosphere.

Don’t waste the energy of any sustainability naysayers; embrace them instead. We often hide away sustainability efforts behind the scenes – reused sets, stages and materials, changes in how refreshments are served, post event emails rather than hand-outs etc.

We’ve just become so used to hiding the sustainability elements as something to be ashamed off. Why not point out what you have done? Remember though that there’s no bigger turn off than being lectured about something. A few hints and the right logos in the right places and the naysayers will be singing your praises. Turn them on to what you’re doing and engage them as brand ambassadors.

Activate the ‘stake’ in your stakeholders and you’ll have not only a great interactive event but also increased positive feedback. When someone knows that they’re important and have a role to play then you’ll get a better response from them. Delegates know how to act sustainably; they just need a reminder and a nudge in the right direction.

Sharon Ward

Corporate Responsibility Manager, The Logistik Group. Check them out here: logistikgroup.com

Little extra: Last week Logistik made Event Magazine's Brand Awards 2011 with the Bauer Live event. http://t.co/asWnIkCI   Congratulations Logistik Team.