In a world of growing ecological awareness, companies and event organizers are faced with a dilemma: is it really possible to organize eco-responsible events, or is it just a marketing myth?
The environmental impact of events
Every event, whether a conference, rebranding or team-building, generates a significant carbon footprint. Between the transportation of participants, energy consumption, waste and the use of resources, the environmental impact is undeniable. Yet, in the face of the climate emergency, more and more organizers are seeking to reduce these negative effects.
The rise of eco-responsible commitments
The idea of the “green event” is seductive. Many companies are now communicating more sustainable practices: use of recycled materials, choice of eco-responsible venues, low-carbon transport options, or rigorous waste management. These initiatives are commendable, but how effective are they? Some of them may be more akin to greenwashing, i.e., ecological advertising without any real basis, than to a sincere and conscious approach.
What is an “eco-responsible” event?
An eco-responsible event is more than just a few symbolic gestures. It’s based on a global approach, integrated right from the design stage. This means thinking about environmental impact at every stage, from local sourcing to the reduction of single-use plastics.
But the desire to limit the ecological footprint can come up against economic or logistical constraints.
Myth or reality?
While perfection in terms of eco-responsible events is difficult to achieve, real progress is being made. Numerous technological and organizational innovations now make it possible to reduce the carbon footprint of events. The key is to remain transparent about the actions taken, to assess and measure the impact, and to adopt a continuous improvement approach.
The eco-responsible event is more than just a myth, it’s a reality in the making. Efforts to move towards a more sustainable model exist and deserve to be supported, even if they are not yet perfect.
Small, simple but important gestures:
Here are a few simple gestures that, while not perfect solutions, will together contribute to significantly reducing the ecological impact of your events.
- Use reusable containers: Ban single-use plastics and opt for reusable or biodegradable bottles, glasses, cutlery and plates.
- Eliminate paper printouts: Instead, use apps or QR codes for program and information materials.
- Combat food waste: Despite the difficulties of estimating the number of participants, take no-shows into account when calculating the number of guests.
- Limit disposable decorations: Opt for reusable, rented or recycled decorations.
- Use energy-efficient equipment: opt for LED lighting and low-consumption electrical appliances, and turn off non-essential equipment.
- Use responsible goodies: Offer eco-friendly promotional items, such as organic cotton bags, bamboo pens or seeds for planting, instead of plastic gadgets.
