Are your meetings green?
By Kim Bartels, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 8 recycling coordinator
Many of us consider ourselves Earth protectors. We focus much of our time and efforts finding ways to protect and conserve our natural resources. When we aren’t out actively protecting and conserving, we are often collaborating with others on this important topic in meetings and conferences.
Green meeting resourcesFor more green meeting tools, tips and resources check out: EPA’s Green Meetings: www.epa.gov/oppt/greenmeetings Oceans Blue Foundation – BlueGreen Meetings: www.bluegreenmeetings.org Green Meeting Industry Council: www.greenmeetings.info Convention Industry Council – Green Meetings Report (2004): www.conventionindustry.org/ Carbonfund.org: www.carbonfund.org |
But have you ever considered the impact these gatherings have on our environment? Meetings and conventions can leave a sizeable carbon footprint from paper consumption, travel and other generated waste. According to Meeting Professional International, 520 gallons of water can be saved by not pre-filling water glasses at banquet tables during three days of served lunches for 2,200 attendees.
A green meeting, or event, incorporates environmental considerations to minimize its negative impact on the environment. Meeting hosts, planners and attendees are asking for – and sometimes even demanding – environmentally friendly gatherings.
One high-profile event boasting its greenness is the upcoming Democratic National Convention, in Denver, in August. The planning committee has incorporated sustainable measures right down to the biodegradable balloons and recycled confetti that will fall on attendees.
Your meetings may not be such large-scale events, but even small details make a difference. Here are a few ideas to help plan your next green meeting.
General communications and printed materials:
- Shift written communications to e-mail, including electronic registration when possible.
- Use ENERGY STAR® computers, laptops, printers, copiers and other products.
- When printing is required, use double-sided copies and post-consumer recycled content paper.
- Collect and reuse plastic name badge holders.
- Encourage speakers to provide electronic copies of presentations and handouts, and post them on a Web site.
Meeting space and lodging:
- Establish, or expand, an on-site recycling program to at least include paper, beverage containers (glass, plastic and aluminum), and cardboard. Organic materials can also be collected for composting.
- Ensure there is a linen reuse program in place that is communicated to guests.
- Choose a location with easy access to public transportation or shuttle services.
- Choose a location with a water conservation program, which has water-saving devices installed on all showerheads, toilets and faucets.
- Choose a location with an energy efficiency program that uses such technology as compact fluorescent lighting and programmable thermostats.
Food and beverage:
- Buy water, beverages, condiments and other food items in bulk or reusable containers to minimize packaging.
- Provide reusable serving utensils, napkins and tablecloths.
- Compost paper and food scraps.
- Use local food in menu options.
Education and recognition:
- Communicate the event’s greening initiatives to attendees and other stakeholders through pre-event e-mails, Web sites, program materials and conference sessions.
- Recognize and/or reward attendees and exhibitors partaking in “green” activities at the meeting.
This is just a sampling of all of the elements to consider when planning a green meeting. Until green practices like these truly become the norm, it’s up to us to lead by example and make environmentally responsible choices for our meetings.
Be sure to check out the green practices implemented at the third annual Sustaining Colorado Watersheds Conference in Vail this October.Next Story>>