5 Ways to Ensure Sustainable Event Planning Without Greenwashing

The buzz of sustainable event planning can be heard in every nook and cranny of the sector. And it’s a wonderful thing. But the alarming truth is it’s not always what it’s cracked up to be, often due to naivety rather than any ill intent.

For example, you’re handed a bamboo fork at a conference and feel a warm glow of eco virtue. Then you notice a diesel generator humming away outside! What you’re witnessing is peak greenwashing in events.

Welcome to a space where reusable cups shout louder than real sustainable event planning. It’s cute. But it’s not cutting carbon.

The good news is you can run eco-friendly events without token green fairy dust. But how do you separate the wheat from the eco chaff?

What Is Greenwashing in Events?

Tiny green tweaks + giant carbon elephants in the room = GREENWASHING.

Lots of events talk the talk. Composting bins, potted plants, eco-friendly lanyards… but your venue’s carbon footprint barely budges unless you tackle the major offenders. 

The guiltiest culprit is Scope 3 emissions in events, which the Carbon Trust defines in its What are Scope 3 emissions and why do they matter? article as: “…indirect emissions that occur in the upstream and downstream activities of an organisation.”

In plain English, this means travel, suppliers, logistics, catering, and all the fun stuff behind the curtain.

So where should you focus?

1)    Venue Location - Think Transport First for Sustainable Event Planning

Rooftop beehives are lovely. But the biggest sustainability win is getting guests there with fewer emissions.

So, prioritise a venue and its location before the frills and fancy stuff. Choose something near major rail, bus, and airport bus links. And make a big deal about minimising single occupant car journeys.

2)    Really Champion Greener Travel (Because Humans Need Serious Nudging)

People often act like they’ve never been let loose before, even when you’ve booked the best-located venues. This is why sustainable event planning calls for a little behavioural science. 

Try:

·        Discounted public transport

·        Shuttle buses

·        Car share incentives

·        Travel-choice tech platforms like You. Smart. Thing. to optimise and report on carbon-friendlier journeys

3)    Choose Local and Responsible Supply Chains

The closer your suppliers, the lighter your footprint. So, it’s vital to look for:

·        Local producers

·        Responsible sourcing

·        Minimal shipping miles

Bonus points: Buying locally supports sustainable event planning beyond eco alignment. In addition, it adds character, provenance and quality your guests can taste and remember.

4)    Low Carbon Sustainable Catering

Food can make or break Scope 3 emissions in events. Thankfully, sustainable catering doesn’t have to be boring, despite what the steak buffs might say while acclimatising to plant-forward menus.

And use these tactics are the icing on the cake:

·        Procure zero waste caterers

·        Reduce packaging

·        Tell the story of the food on their plates and drinks in their glasses

5)    Offset As a Last Resort

Carbon offsetting is the garnish. Not the meat and potatoes.

For this reason, partner with reputable offset providers only when travel or logistics emissions can’t be reduced. Otherwise, it’s a lazy way to mop up your mess.

How to Avoid Greenwashing at Your Event

Ask all shortlisted venues and suppliers:

·        How are you reducing Scope 3 emissions in events?

·        Are you tracking carbon?

·        Are your claims independently verified?

·        Do you publish sustainability data?

·        How do you work with local supply chains?

And be mindful of:

·       Vague eco-friendly language

·       Certifications you’ve never heard of

·       Sustainability claims with no data

·       Visible gimmicks

If it smells like PR, it probably is.

Plan a Sustainable Event with a Little Help from Your Friends

At the Venue Hunters, we’ll help you find venues that back their claims with action, besides compostable confetti.

Get in touch for:

·       FREE venue finding and sustainable event planning support

·       Expert hotel, venue, and supplier knowledge

·       Bulk buying power

·       Support across the UK, Ireland, Europe and further afield

You’ll soon be set for a brilliant event that’s genuinely better for the planet, not just masquerading as eco-conscious.