Going Event Green - Part One

First, I want to say that this new series of articles is now the hottest subject in the Event Planning Industry. Second I want to apologize for not keeping our Blog regularly updated. It's been an extraordinary year and in an extraordinary year extraordinary measures must be taken.

I, your humble 'bay area event blogger', am primarily a professional full time event planner, producing, managing and executing events, meetings, team buildings and gala's. With the current economic downturn my company has had to cut back our office and sales staffing. Consequently I, your humble 'bay area event blogger', am doing more with far less time for things I enjoy like blogging and doing my radio show.

Oh well, that's the nature of this business, we have survived several recessions and downturns over the last 25 years so I will continue to pray for this economy and work hard getting through it. Nonetheless I hope you enjoy this series on 'Going Event Green'

Zero Waste: Plan a Zero-Waste Event

How does my event impact the environment?
Let’s face it events, although usually joyous, generate waste, overuse natural
resources, and produce emissions. Extra transportation miles are clocked by
attendees travel and deliveries. To supply enough tableware and save efforts
in post-event clean-up, disposable items, made from paper and plastic are
commonly used. Other packaging containers like glass and plastic bottles,
plastic bags, cardboard, and aluminum and steel cans all add to increased
waste, especially if recycling receptacles are not provided.

How can I host a more environment-friendly event?
To be eco-conscious the host can appropriately plan and execute certain
guidelines:

• Provide carpooling and alternative transportation to and from the
event

• Correctly estimate the amount of reusable, recyclable or compostable
tableware needed

• Educate guests about their role in composting and recycling waste by
providing instructional signage.

With thorough planning and forethought, a zero-waste event is possible, and
the resulting clear conscience is a nice bonus!

“Producing one ton of paper products requires 2-3 times its weight in trees.” -Worldwatch Institute, 2004

Zero-Waste Quick Guide
1 - Use reusable tableware whenever possible
2 - If reusable tableware is not possible, use products that are created from renewable resources rather than products made from limited resource fossil fuels and virgin fiber.
3 - Compost or recycle all of your waste; use separate clearly-marked containers to help guests and/or attendants efficiently separate items.
4 - Encourage guests to walk, ride their bike, carpool or take mass transit to your event, and provide information with your electronic invitations to make these alternatives as accessible as possible.
5 - Make your event carbon-neutral and offset CO2 emissions by supporting initiatives that reduce greenhouse gases.