It is 99.9% likely that all of you will plan an event at some point in your life whether it be large scale like a festival, small scale like a birthday party, or even your own wedding (which usually lies somewhere in between only you can up the stress exponentially...). It is important to note however, that while much effort and planning goes into that event, there is also a lot of waste and harm to the environment that can occur from the single event you host. Not to worry, there are many ways that can be easily reduced. Over the next 6 weeks I will be posting about how to reduce your harm to the environment while planning an event and the importance of doing so.
There is much more to being "green" than recycling (though it is important!). Here are some common myths about going "green". I will note that as I'm a wedding planner aside from being a student, many tips will be referenced towards the industry.
1. Being eco-friendly is expensive.
Surprisingly it's not. Think about it, if you're having your wedding in one location from ceremony to reception take out your cost of your limo as you no longer need it. Poof. There goes $600+ not to mention you're reducing the harm to the environment by all your guests driving here and there and they all love you for being so convenient with your venue. This is also applicable to a meeting or conference as well.
2. If you can't be 100% eco-friendly then why bother?
Every effort towards sustainability makes an impact. "According to Green Suites International, if one hotel adopts the bath and linen program, 200 barrels of oil are saved per year-- enough to run a family car for 180,000 miles" (Professional Meeting Management 5th Edition, page 469).
3. Individuals are powerless to change their workplaces and communities.
Just because you're the only person in your workplace or community actively standing to make a difference doesn't mean that others don't care or that they aren't willing to jump in and be a part of your initiative. There are many success stories of individuals that have led the way for their company. "Empowerment is a primary goal of eco-efficient conference management, giving attendees the opportunity to reduce their own environmental impact and adopt responsible behaviors. These individual changes continue beyond a single event" (Professional Meeting Management 5th Edition, page 469).
Stay tuned for tips on how to "go-green" at your next event!
-Nicole
This one is good. keep up the good work!.. event technical production company
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