“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker
Event production has been growing rapidly for the past decade and has turned into a trillion-dollar industry. It contributes to the economy, tourism, art, and development. Although there are some consequences towards it. It is estimated that in 2022, the event production industry was responsible for 10% of global CO2 emissions annually. In contrast, those numbers can be compared to a yearly emission of CO2 by the USA.
Do you know how much your industry contributes towards CO2 emissions?
Nowadays, most operations are not only examined from the profitability perspective, but also from the ecological aspect. Sustainable projects get recognition and enhance the brand image of a company. Individuals and companies are more focused on recycling and reduction of waste, they try to minimize the use of plastic single-use products and switch to green energy sources like wind and sun. Here are some of the case studies and statistics on how companies manage their strategies.
First and foremost is the correct research and identification of emissions and their sources. Mostly CO2 emissions come from travel and food production. Flights, taxis, buses, and cars contribute up to 90% of an event’s CO2 emissions. Food production generates around 30% of the global CO2 emissions. While local travel emissions can be partly mitigated by introducing electric methods of transportation, like the metro, cars and buses that work on green energy, food consumption is a more complicated issue. Unavoidable CO2 emissions may be neutralized by participating in credible carbon offsetting projects. For example, during Fashion Week in Melbourne in 2018, venues were close to public transport, with easy access by bikes. Those were a part of a sustainable scheme, that helped the event production company to reduce their carbon footprint for the event.
At the same time, waste pollution in events can be minimized. Production operators may consider sustainable vendors and venues. Both can significantly impact the sustainability of the event if their policies account for green environment, and they pursue sustainable initiatives seriously and efficiently. Recycling schemes, multiuse tools, reduction of single-use plastic utilities, waste management systems, water conservations are main examples of those measures.
Moreover, digital ticketing also plays a huge role in waste management. Digital tickets reduce paper waste during the event and enhance sustainability. This method could be further implemented to event promotions as well. No more handouts, no more paper littering – digital ads and SMM would help event production companies to be more sustainable and greener.
Suggest any other ways you think events could be more sustainable in the comments section.
Not only should the event be sustainable, but the company itself. Various sustainable schemes should be one of the main priorities for companies who operate in the Event Production field. For instance, here at BeWunder, we have implemented multiple policies in line with our Green Initiative, starting with a 70% paper-free environment, reducing food wastage to a minimum, planting trees around the office, sustainable merch for our team members and many more.
Even though the event production field is a fast-paced industry, with its unique aspects, we must continue to maintain our planet’s health and balance whilst delivering incredible projects. With this mindset, we can look confidently towards our future and the prospect of growth.
Are there any ways in which you are sustainable? Let us know in the comments section how you maintain the safety of the planet.