Corporate Events Archives

Sustainability is no longer just a trend – it’s a necessity. As companies strive to reduce their environmental impact, corporate events offer a unique opportunity to showcase sustainability efforts.

Here are some sustainable solutions and important considerations for eco-friendly event planning.

Industry standards and accreditations

To ensure credibility in sustainability claims, many event companies seek out industry standards and certifications. Two key accreditations stand out in the events industry:

ISO 20121: This international standard focuses on sustainable event management systems. It helps organisations improve sustainability throughout the event life cycle – from sourcing materials and managing waste to reducing emissions.
ECOsmart: A certification tailored to the meetings and events industry by Greengage, ECOsmart helps event organisers implement sustainable practices across various areas, such as waste management, carbon reduction, and resource use. ECOsmart-certified venues and companies demonstrate a serious commitment to environmental and social sustainability.

Accreditations like these provide transparency and accountability, ensuring that sustainability initiatives are authentic and not mere “green-washing.” Beyond environmental impacts, however, companies need to expand their focus on the broader concept of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) sustainability.

This holistic approach ensures that social equity, diversity, and governance structures are integrated into event policies for long-term impact.

Key considerations for eco-friendly corporate events

When planning a sustainable corporate event, it’s essential to think beyond just the environment. Here are some considerations for a truly eco-friendly event:

Renewable energy

Leverage renewable energy sources to power your event. This can include solar-powered lighting or energy-efficient technologies. One of the most innovative solutions today is kinetic energy dance floors. These floors convert the movement of attendees into energy, which can power small devices like photo booths or phone charging stations, adding a fun yet functional twist to large-scale events.

Sustainable venue selection

Choosing a venue that prioritises sustainability is crucial. Look for venues that use renewable energy, have robust waste management systems, and are certified by organisations like ECOsmart. These venues often have eco-friendly infrastructure and policies in place, from efficient lighting to water conservation systems.

Waste management

Reduce, reuse, and recycle should be the mantra for any eco-conscious event. Implement waste segregation at the event, and work with vendors who use sustainable materials. Offering digital alternatives, such as electronic tickets and QR codes, can also help reduce paper waste.

Sustainable catering

Source locally-produced, organic food, and consider plant-based menu options. Reducing food miles and offering sustainable choices not only lower your carbon footprint but also support local communities. Ensure that any surplus food is donated to minimise waste.

Eco-friendly transport

Encourage attendees to use public transportation, carpool, or cycle to the event. For international attendees, work with carbon-offsetting programs to balance the environmental impact of flights. Providing shuttles that use electric or hybrid vehicles is another excellent step towards reducing emissions.

Giveaways and materials

Minimise the environmental impact of event materials by choosing eco-friendly swag and recycled products. Avoid plastic and focus on useful, sustainable items such as reusable water bottles, bamboo cutlery, or digital guides instead of printed programmes.

These considerations, combined with a dedication to transparent reporting and adherence to internationally recognised standards, will not only reduce the environmental footprint of corporate events but also build a positive reputation for businesses committed to true sustainability.

Industry checkpoint

Here are a few policies from venues and hotel groups that might help your decision making process:

Hilton

Hilton Hotels has an ESG Policy and report on previous years’ objectives. Highlights of their policy include integration of EDG across the whole company, strategic ESG objectives, and its Travel with Purpose 2030 framework.

Marriott

Marriott Hotel’s ESG Policy has more ambitious goals with six objectives relating to volunteering, carbon intensity and waste reduction to complete by 2025.

Wyboston Lakes Resort

Wyboston Lakes Resort is an environmentally-friendly venue with goals of being carbon neutral by 2040, ‘Room2Grow’ and ‘Zero to Landfill’ initiatives.

ICC Wales

The ICC Wales has won RICS Social Impact Awards 2020 and has objectives to communicate and train employees in sustainable practices, developing a positive culture towards sustainability, and engaging with the local community.

Ashorne Hill

Ashorne Hill has recently been accredited for its contributions to sustainable development. Some of the key initiatives implemented include an energy saving laundry system and minimising food waste; a ‘Too Good To Go’ food diversion scheme for staff members.

Silverstone

Silverstone has become the first motor racing venue to join the UNFCCC Sports for Climate Action programme. The venue also signed joined hundreds of other venues across the world in signing the Net Zero Carbon Events pledge.

QHotels Collection

The QHotels Collection’s new sustainability programme focuses on three key areas: People, Places and Planet. To remain transparent and accountable, The QHotels Collection has made several sustainability promises, including establishing a sustainable procurement and purchasing policy.

Yorkshire Event Centre

Yorkshire Events Centre walks the sustainability walk with solar panels, pump house, efficient waste management, and a vast rural landscape where it supports local wildlife.

Our global destination knowledge

These diverse destinations reflect the incredible variety of event venues available across the globe. Each city offers its own unique atmosphere, and the venues we’ve selected showcase the best of what these destinations have to offer. Whether you’re looking for modern luxury, historical grandeur, or something truly unique, there’s a venue here for every event.

Are you ready to start searching for a sustainable venue for your next event? Start planning today see the amazing venues available through EDGE.

Register today for free access, or contact Scott or Kirsty to see how our platform can help your agency or business.

Corporate events have long been a powerful tool for networking, team building, education, celebrating achievements, and more. Yet these events can do much more—they can be a force for good in your communities.

By integrating sustainability into event planning, companies can give back to the community and contribute to a healthier planet.

How can event planners ensure their choices align with these values? That’s where EDGE Venues comes into play.

Corporate events in community building

Corporate events are an opportunity to influence and inspire. Whatever the type of event, they bring together people, resources, and ideas. With the right approach, they can also benefit the communities in which you hold them.

For instance, companies can partner with local vendors, donate leftover food to shelters, or support local charities through fundraising activities at the event.

Skift Meetings has curated a fantastic list of ways to give back through events. The list is stacked with inventive solutions for organisations that desire to make a difference. With everything from a Charity Bike Build and Diabetes Cook-off to Paws For A Cause, Foodbank Showdown and more, the list is a must-read for event profs. Check it out here!

Why sustainability matters

The events industry is known for generating significant waste and carbon emissions, from single-use plastics to large-scale energy consumption. By prioritising sustainability, companies can reduce their environmental footprint and set a positive example for others.

When companies choose sustainable practices for their events, they help protect the environment, conserve resources, and promote social responsibility.

How can EDGE support sustainable event planning?

Planning an event with sustainability in mind can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. EDGE Venues makes it easier for event planners to make informed decisions that align with their sustainability goals.

Here’s how:

1. Venue sustainability policies

One of the most significant factors in sustainable event planning is the choice of venue. EDGE Venues provides detailed information about each venue’s sustainability policies, helping planners identify locations prioritising eco-friendly initiatives.

Whether it’s energy-efficient lighting, water conservation measures, or waste reduction programmes, EDGE provides venues with the opportunity to ensure event planners have the information they need to choose a venue that aligns with their values.

2. Accreditations and certifications

In addition to sustainability policies, we also highlight venues that receive relevant sustainability accreditations and certifications.

These recognitions, such as Green Tourism Standard and Greengage ECOsmart, indicate that a venue meets high environmental and social responsibility standards.

3. Venue insights

Venues can easily share their latest sustainability initiatives and community engagement efforts on EDGE Venues. This keeps event planners informed about the newest venue initiatives.

By regularly updating their profiles with news on accreditations, eco-friendly upgrades, or local partnerships, venues can showcase their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. This helps venues stand out to planners seeking sustainable options, making it easier to choose venues that align with your values and goals for a positive community impact.

View latest venue news here.

A call to action – make sustainability a priority

As a company, you have the power to make a difference through your corporate events. By prioritising sustainability in your event planning, you can give back to the community, protect the environment, and inspire others to do the same.

We encourage all event planners to use EDGE Venues to make informed, sustainable choices for their events. Start planning today and see how EDGE can help you make a difference!

Register today for free access, or contact Scott or Kirsty to see how our platform can help your agency or business.

Tag: Corporate Events

Eco-friendly event planning – sustainable solutions for corporates