Let’s be real: environmental concerns aren’t trending right now. Clients are watching their wallets, not their carbon footprints, but here’s the thing—sustainability isn’t just about saving the planet. It’s about running a smarter, more profitable business.
Why Bother
Simple: Because it works.
While others scramble to cut corners, smart event planners are discovering that sustainable practices lead to lower your operating costs, better vendor relationships, stronger client loyalty, and future-proofed operations. We’ve heard stories recently where a local supply chain has succeeded in delivering goods where the international one does not—it’s pricier, so fewer goods were used—a twofold environmental win.
Making It Work
You can make smart stealth moves that impact your footprint without anyone noticing.
Firstly, don’t preach—deliver. Frame sustainable choices as smart business. Digital invites are “modern and trackable,” local sourcing is “reliable and fresh,” and waste reduction is “efficient logistics.” While “green” might be out, improving processes and cost efficiency is always great.
Let the Money Talk—We aren’t environmental charities; this matters to your bottom line. Invest in quality, reusable materials—they pay for themselves by event three and are usually of higher quality. Partner with local vendors to cut transport costs. Utilize sustainability to identify and eliminate operational waste—what are you discarding that could be reused?
Your secret weapon is not to join the race to the bottom but to maintain your environmental standards quietly. When the pendulum swings back (and it will), you’ll already be compliant, trusted by eco-conscious clients.
Where to Start
- Audit your current practices—what sustainable measures save you money? Can you stop printing documents? Can you eliminate the two entrée options and go vegetarian?
- Find partners sharing your values and offer competitive pricing.
- Make small, smart changes that benefit the planet and profit. Small changes make big impacts.
You don’t need to wave the green flag to do the right thing. Focus on building a resilient, efficient business that’s environmentally responsible. That’s not just good ethics—it’s good business.
Wherever you are on the journey to greater sustainability, let us know at The Sustainable Events Forum or CSE how we can help maximize your return on efforts, for both the planet and your business.
This article was provided by Natalie Lowe, founder of The Sustainable Events Forum in 2018 and started Earth Day for Event People. It is supported by a fantastic group of event professionals seeking to make positive change. Over a thousand people have taken her Sustainable Events course and are influencing the world in their own ways.
To learn more about The Sustainable Event Forum, visit their website and social media pages.
