With 2024 approaching, it’s an opportune time to reflect on how to operate in a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly manner. An excellent way to kickstart this initiative? Moving forward with carbon neutral events. Such events not only showcase your company’s commitment to a greener future but also sets a positive precedent for the months to come.
So, how do you plan your company’s event so it’s as eco-friendly as it is engaging?
Understanding Carbon Neutrality
Carbon neutrality means balancing the amount of greenhouse gases you emit with an equivalent amount offset, making the net emissions zero. When planning a neutral carbon event, the goal is to minimise emissions at every stage – from conception to execution.
Calculating Your Carbon Emissions
By calculating your carbon emissions, you’ll have a detailed view of the sources of emissions and the areas that require attention. Unsure about how to begin? Our online carbon neutral event tool is here to assist! We can pinpoint and measure all the activities associated with your event that produce carbon emissions.
Ways to Reduce Your Event’s Emissions
Choosing the Right Venue:
The venue you choose can be a significant factor in the event’s carbon footprint. When selecting a location, think about:
- Proximity: Choose a central location that’s easily accessible to most attendees. This reduces travel-related emissions.
- Green Credentials: Opt for venues with environmental certifications. They often have energy-efficient infrastructure, waste management systems, and sustainable sourcing policies.
- Outdoor Venues: Nature-based events can reduce the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning, so choose outdoor venues when the season or weather allows.
Digital Invitations:
Skip the paper and send out digital invites. A dedicated event page on your company website can manage RSVPs, provide event details, and even integrate with calendar apps.
Sustainable Transportation:
Promote and provide sustainable transportation options:
- Shuttle Buses: Arrange for buses to transport attendees from central locations.
- Carpooling: Encourage attendees to carpool. There are many carpooling apps available that can facilitate this.
- Public Transport: If possible, choose a venue close to public transportation links.
- Bicycle Racks: For local attendees, provide bicycle storage to encourage cycling to the event.
Eco-Friendly Catering:
Food and drink can have a large carbon footprint. To reduce it:
- Local Produce: Source food and beverages locally to reduce transportation emissions.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Animal agriculture is a significant source of emissions. Offering vegetarian or vegan options can make a big difference.
- Reusable Cutlery & Crockery: Avoid single-use plastics. Opt for reusable items or compostable alternatives.
Waste Reduction:
Implement a robust waste management plan:
- Recycling Stations: Clearly labelled recycling bins for paper, glass, and plastics.
- Compost Bins: For food waste.
- Digital Handouts: Instead of physical brochures or pamphlets, provide digital copies or use QR codes.
Green Energy:
Consider the source of your power:
- Solar Panels: Rent portable solar panels for outdoor events.
- Green Energy Providers: Check whether the venue uses renewable energy sources or can purchase green energy credits for the duration of your event.
Engage Attendees:
Involvement is key! Make it a collaborative effort:
- Carbon Offset: Provide options for attendees to offset their carbon footprint, perhaps through tree planting initiatives.
- Interactive Sessions: Host workshops or discussions on sustainability. This not only educates attendees but also gets them involved in the green movement.
- Feedback: After the event, send out a feedback form specifically about the green initiatives. This can help you understand what worked and what didn’t, making your next event even greener!
Offsetting Remaining Emissions
Despite your company’s best efforts, there will always be a challenge to reach zero emissions. This is where our carbon neutral events tool comes in to play, and offsets these emissions by funding an equivalent amount of carbon savings elsewhere. These could be investments in projects like tree planting, renewable energy projects, or other eco-initiatives, which counterbalance your event’s emissions and have a verifiable impact.
Communicate and Celebrate:
Let your attendees, stakeholders, and the public know about your efforts. Sharing your journey towards organising a carbon-neutral event not only enhances your brand’s reputation but also inspires others to take similar initiatives.
Planning a carbon neutral event can seem like a daunting task. But with the right strategy and our online tool, it’s entirely achievable.
Remember, every small action counts. As you look forward to 2024, it’s the perfect time to ensure you kick-off the year right, and hit those resolution goals for your company to be more conscious, caring, and committed to our planet. Your business can champion a greener, brighter future for all, from just £500 per event!
