12 Simple Sustainability Swaps

Author: Nicole Walker, Arinex Managing Director

Event professionals have made great strides towards sustainability in recent years. Regardless of whether you are starting out on the sustainability journey or already producing carbon neutral events, your next meeting can be more eco-friendly with many simple swaps.

1. Hard copy posters >> digital poster terminals

Use digital screens to show a library of research posters instead of a hall filled with printed posters. One terminal could save hundreds of posters from being printed and thrown in the bin at the conclusion of the event. If digital is not feasible, consider printing posters on recycled paper with environmentally friendly ink.

2. Printed programs >> a mobile app

A mobile app is a great solution providing all the event information in one accessible location for attendees. A mobile app not only saves the environment but has so much more functionality. Instantly find program information, view papers, contact attendees and make live updates to your program.

3. All-inclusive registration >> opt-in options

Give attendees the option when registering for a conference or event, to select if they want a printed program and satchel included. Not only do you reduce waste but those who require one will use it.

4. International >> local suppliers

Support local and small businesses who use local sustainable products and even organic produce. Local suppliers also travel less miles, reducing their carbon footprint.

5. Branded satchels >> online library

Reduce waste and carbon emissions by swapping branded bags for an online resource library. Contents that normally go into the bag can be available online. This eliminates waste but also the paper and production to produce the materials. Display a QR code on digital signage at the event to communicate how to access the information.

6. Plastic name badge pockets >> durable name badge paper

Multiple suppliers have recently emerged offering alternatives to plastic pockets and lanyards. Use recycled cardboard or paper that can be repurposed. Consider seeded paper where attendees can plant their used name badge after the event. By adding water they can watch their name badge come to life with herbs or a tree.

7. Meat focused catering >> plant-based catering

Meat products have a larger carbon footprint over vegetarian and plant-based food. Consider a vegetarian morning tea, lunch or dinners and make sure the venue has a food waste program.

8. In-person planning meetings >> online meetings

Save emissions by reducing the number of in-person planning meetings and replace with online meetings. This reduces transport costs, additional power in a large space and negates the provision of food catering costs and waste.

9. Plugin charging stations >> people-powered charging stations

Add a fun element to your event with a pedal powered charging station for attendees to charge their mobile devices. More and more suppliers are coming up with fun and unique ways for sustainability at events and it is worth asking local suppliers what they can provide.

10. One-use exhibition MDF board >> reusable board

Use a stand builder who offers a recycled board and signage option. Avoid polystyrene, single-use plastics, polyester carpets and use energy efficient lighting and non-PVC vinyls.

11. In-person international speakers >> virtual speakers

Save carbon emissions, time and money by allowing international speakers to present virtually instead of attending in person. By removing flights, accommodation, travel and meals, you reduce the event’s carbon footprint significantly. If budget allows, you can also consider global speakers as holograms to create an impact.

12. Gifting VIPs with bottled wine >> donations

Donate to a local charity or community organisation that is giving back to the environment as a VIP gift. Some ideas include a tree planted in their name or purchase carbon credits for a rainforest restoration or clean energy project.