HOW TO HOLD A GREEN MEETING
Organizing a sustainable meeting means going beyond just planning the agenda—it’s about making choices that minimize environmental impact and promote responsible practices. Here’s how to make your next meeting greener:
Choose an Eco-Friendly Location
- Accessibility: Select a venue that’s easy to reach on foot or by public transport to minimize the need for cars or taxis. If travel is required, opt for train travel over flying whenever possible, as trains have a lower carbon footprint.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for venues that use energy wisely, such as those with natural lighting, energy-efficient bulbs, and optimized cooling systems. Encourage participants to switch off devices and lights when not in use.
Reduce Waste
- Minimize Disposable Items: Opt for reusable dishes, cups, and utensils to cut down on waste. Avoid unnecessary packaging and ensure waste is sorted and recycled properly
- Smart Water Use: Choose venues that prioritize water conservation. Provide refillable water bottles for participants instead of single-use plastic ones.
Use Sustainable Materials
- Eco-Friendly Supplies: Use recycled or organic materials for any printed items like notepads or brochures. Buy only what’s necessary, and encourage participants to bring their own supplies when possible.
- Paper reduction: Communicate electronically as much as possible to reduce paper usage. If printing is unavoidable, ensure that participants are mindful of their paper use.
Serve Sustainable Food
- Local and Organic: Serve local, organic food to reduce transportation emissions and support local farmers. Include vegetarian options and choose seasonal produce for a lower environmental impact.
- Reusable Utensils: Swap out disposable napkins and utensils for cloth napkins and washable cutlery to reduce waste.
Energy Management
Conserve Power: Choose venues that optimize energy use. Encourage turning off devices when not in use, managing room temperatures efficiently, and using energy only when necessary.
By incorporating these practices, your meeting won’t just be effective—it will also contribute to a healthier planet. Each decision you make helps reduce the event’s ecological footprint and sets a positive example for others to follow.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.