Eco-Conscious Event Planning

Let’s face it events, although usually joyous, generate waste, overuse natural resources, and produce emissions. Extra transportation miles are clocked by attendees travel and deliveries. To supply enough tableware and save efforts in post-event clean-up, disposable items, made from paper and plastic are commonly used. Other packaging containers like glass and plastic bottles,
plastic bags, cardboard, and aluminum and steel cans all add to increased waste, especially if recycling receptacles are not provided.

To be eco-conscious your planner can appropriately plan and execute certain
guidelines:

• Provide carpooling and alternative transportation to and from the event

• Correctly estimate the amount of reusable, recyclable or compostable tableware needed

• Educate guests about their role in composting and recycling waste by providing instructional signage.

With thorough planning and forethought, a zero-waste event is possible, and the resulting clear conscience is a nice bonus!

by Howard Radis

Be Green- 10 green steps to lowering your events carbon footprint

1. For your invitations try and find a company that uses recycled paper, some even offer treeless paper alternatives.
2. To reduce the uses of paper all together, consider having a single program per couple instead of for each individual. By using a reply post-card you also eliminate the use of more envelopes.
3. Potted plants and herbs can be an alternative to floral centerpieces that your guests can take home and re-use after the big day. If you do use florals consider locally sourced flowers.
4. Instead of gifts ask you guests to donate to your favorite charities or environmental group.
5. Create your menu using local and organic food. Minimize the amount of meat and try to select in-season fruits, veggies, and local dairy products.
6. Consider the proximity to public transportation for your guests
7. Instead of bridesmaid bouquets consider alternatives such as parasols.
8. If your event is being held indoors, consider using the space with the most natural light
9. Instead of rice, seeds, or even paper confetti provide your guests with flower petal confetti this alternative is not only beautiful it is also biodegradable!
10. Instead of a favor, have a tree planted in your guests’ name.