EVENT GREENING FORUM

The events guide to ditching single-use plastic

In a world increasingly aware of its environmental impact, South African businesses have a unique opportunity to lead the charge toward sustainability. And what better time to begin than right after Plastic Free July?

As an event planner in Africa, you understand the challenges we face: load shedding, water scarcity, and a growing awareness of our environmental footprint. But let's be honest, "green fatigue" is real. Nobody wants to be lectured at a conference or feel guilty about enjoying a cocktail.

So, how do we make plastic-free events in Africa exciting, not exhausting?

First, a dose of reality: The average event attendee generates a staggering 1,9kg of waste daily. For a 1,000-person, three-day conference, that's the equivalent of 2.6 compact cars headed straight for the landfill. And the culprit? Single-use plastic, is used for minutes, then haunts our environment for centuries. Most single-use plastics are used for less than 15 minutes before being discarded, and experts predict that by 2050, our oceans will contain more plastic than fish.

The good news is that ditching disposable plastic isn't just about responsibility; it's about innovation and standing out in the competitive events landscape. It's about showcasing Africa's ingenuity and commitment to a sustainable future.

Here are six relatively easy ways to host a plastic-free event:

1. Embrace African Ingenuity

Trade plastic name tags for plantable seed paper badges that blossom into indigenous flowers or herbs. Showcase local artisans by offering reusable tote bags made from traditional fabrics as event swag.

2. Hydration with a Twist

Install refill stations with locally sourced, filtered water, and offer branded reusable water bottles with African-inspired designs. You can host a “BYOBottle” sundowner, where attendees can mingle and compare their eco-chic water bottle choices.

3. Tech Meets Tradition

Embrace the digital age with online registrations, event apps featuring local wildlife guides, and interactive digital agendas showcasing African art and culture.

4. The Zero-Waste Buffet

Who said sustainability couldn’t be delicious? Elevate your catering game with a fully edible buffet. Imagine plates crafted from wheat bran, cutlery you can munch on, and water pods encased in seaweed — a true culinary adventure that leaves no trace behind. Challenge your guests to embrace this innovative dining experience and leave no waste in their wake.

5. Engage and Inspire

Make sustainability a highlight of your event. Host a ‘Plastic-Free Pledge’ wall, where attendees can commit to reducing their plastic use. Organise interactive workshops on upcycling plastic waste into art or practical items.

6. Greenest Vendor Wins

Publicly showcase a ‘green rating’ for each supplier at your event, based on their plastic reduction initiatives. Think of it as a friendly competition where ecoconsciousness takes centre stage. This not only motivates vendors to up their green game but also educates attendees about the importance of sustainable sourcing. It’s a win-win for your event’s reputation, and the planet.

This is your opportunity to take what you learned during Plastic Free July and show the world that African events are environmentally conscious. By embracing creativity, innovation, and a touch of African flair, you can create events that are truly unforgettable while treading lightly on our precious planet.

About us

The Event Greening Forum is a non-profit organisation that promotes sustainability within the business events sector.To find out more, please visit www.eventgreening.co.za.

For more information, please contact: Lynn Mcleod

Tel: 082 891 5883

Email: lynn@eventgreening.co.za