We are all part of the environment, we are all contributing to the outcome for our planet. The event industry’s NetZero Carbon pledge at COP26 doesn’t mean no events. In fact events are a brilliant tool to drive progress in a sustainable way. Being together face-2-face can be the most expedient way to develop business solutions which can have a far bigger impact than the event’s carbon budget. But there are ways to lessen the impact.
Many hotels and venues have adopted strategies to reduce their environmental impact and can provide Carbon Budget forecasts as part of the RFQ. Choosing destinations with better transport links and more direct flights offers benefits. Selecting a central location can eliminate the need for additional transfers for meetings, restaurants and activities. Walking to/from the conference venue or restaurant reduces CO2 and adds physical and mental health benefits too.
Something as simple as the menu can have a BIG impact. Globally, food is the single biggest way to reduce our impact on the planet. Our choice of foods, their source, their travel to our table and its presentation all add up to a big impact. It’s an area event owners can begin tackling now.
Achieving NetZero in events doesn’t mean just going virtual. Virtual and Hybrid Events have their place in a strategy but they are not the only step to take. Make sure Sustainable Events are on your agenda when you talk with High 5 Events about your future plans.