Understanding and Reducing Event Carbon Footprint

When planning an event, sustainability is becoming a key consideration. Events can have a significant environmental impact, but understanding where that impact comes from is the first step to reducing it. I want to share insights on how you can measure and lower the carbon footprint of your events, helping your business contribute to a greener future.

What Is a Carbon Footprint for Events?

A carbon footprint for events refers to the total greenhouse gas emissions caused directly or indirectly by an event. This includes everything from energy use and transportation to waste and food consumption. By calculating this footprint, you can identify the biggest sources of emissions and take targeted action.

For example, a conference held in Auckland might involve flights for attendees, electricity for lighting and sound, catering services, and printed materials. Each of these contributes to the overall carbon footprint. Understanding these components helps you make smarter choices, such as choosing local suppliers or digital materials.

Conference room with energy-efficient lighting

Key Areas to Measure in Your Event Carbon Footprint

To effectively reduce emissions, you need to know where they come from. Here are the main areas to focus on:

1. Transportation

   Travel to and from the event often accounts for a large share of emissions. This includes flights, car trips, and public transport. Encouraging attendees to use public transport or carpool can make a big difference.

   
   

2. Energy Use

   Lighting, heating, cooling, and electronic equipment consume energy. Opting for venues with renewable energy sources or using energy-efficient equipment reduces this impact.

   
   

3. Catering and Food Waste

   Food production and waste generate significant emissions. Choosing local, seasonal, and plant-based options lowers the footprint. Also, plan portions carefully to minimize waste.

   
   

4. Materials and Waste

   Printed materials, decorations, and single-use items add to emissions. Using digital alternatives and reusable or recyclable materials helps cut down waste.

   
   

5. Accommodation

   If your event requires overnight stays, the type of accommodation and its sustainability practices matter. Partnering with eco-friendly hotels supports your goals.

   
   

By tracking these areas, you can create a detailed picture of your event’s environmental impact.

Reusable water bottle at an event

What is 90% of an event's carbon footprint comes from?

Research shows that 90% of an event's carbon footprint comes from just a few key sources. Primarily, these are:

• Travel and transportation: This is often the largest contributor, especially if attendees fly long distances.

• Accommodation: Overnight stays can add significant emissions, depending on the hotel’s energy use and practices.

• Catering: Food production, especially meat and dairy, has a high carbon cost.

  
  

Focusing your efforts on these areas will yield the most substantial reductions. For example, encouraging virtual attendance or hybrid formats can cut travel emissions dramatically. Selecting venues close to public transport and promoting plant-based menus also help.

Understanding this breakdown allows you to prioritise actions that have the greatest impact.

Plant-based catering spread at an event

Practical Steps to Reduce Your Event’s Carbon Footprint

Reducing your event’s carbon footprint is achievable with thoughtful planning. Here are some actionable recommendations:

• Choose a sustainable venue: Look for venues with green certifications or renewable energy sources. Check their waste management and water-saving practices.

• Promote sustainable transport: Provide information on public transport, cycling routes, and carpool options. Consider organising shuttle buses from major hubs.

• Minimise printed materials: Use digital invitations, programs, and signage. If printing is necessary, choose recycled paper and eco-friendly inks.

• Opt for local and seasonal food: Work with caterers who source ingredients locally and offer plant-based options. Avoid single-use plastics by using reusable or compostable cutlery and plates.

• Manage waste effectively: Set up clear recycling and composting stations. Train staff and volunteers to help attendees dispose of waste correctly.

• Offset unavoidable emissions: For emissions you cannot eliminate, consider purchasing carbon offsets from reputable providers. This supports projects that reduce or capture emissions elsewhere.

  
  

By implementing these steps, you not only reduce your event’s environmental impact but also demonstrate leadership in sustainability.

How Measuring Your Event Carbon Footprint Supports Your Business Goals

Measuring your event’s carbon footprint is more than an environmental exercise. It aligns with business goals by:

• Enhancing brand reputation: Customers and partners increasingly value sustainability. Showing commitment can attract new clients and retain existing ones.

• Reducing costs: Energy efficiency, waste reduction, and smarter logistics often save money.

• Meeting regulatory requirements: New Zealand is moving towards stricter environmental standards. Early action prepares your business for compliance.

• Driving innovation: Sustainability challenges encourage creative solutions and new partnerships.

  
  

Using tools and services like those offered by MyImprint can simplify the process. They provide expert guidance to measure and reduce your event carbon footprint, making sustainability accessible and manageable.

Taking these steps positions your business as a responsible leader in New Zealand’s sustainability journey.

By understanding the sources of emissions and applying practical strategies, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your events. This not only benefits the planet but also supports your business’s long-term success. Start today by assessing your next event’s carbon footprint and exploring ways to make it greener.