Spend Less, Feel Happy, and Make it Meaningful
Hello, fellow humans! 🌍 If you’re here, I believe you know about climate change and the urgent need for action. Instead of sharing information and facts that you probably already know (or can find easily), let’s focus on building the confidence to plan and host your next event as an environmentally friendly one.
And, if you want to dive deeper into the “WHAT” and “WHY” of this, here’s an inspiring video clip to watch:
[His Epic Message Will Make You Want to Save the World | Short Film Showcase]
Eco-friendly events are more fun! Don’t just take my word for it—hear it from those who have tried it!
Watch this video for inspiration:
Eco-friendly events are worthwhile, trendy, and fun- so why not give it a go?
Tips to Make Your Event Eco-Friendly and Meaningful
There are plenty of sustainable ideas to make it work! Here’s how to get started, plus a support network for each tip.
1. Set Your Theme: This is often overlooked, but it tells guests, caterers, and even yourself about your commitment to sustainability. Setting the theme will uplift the spirits of everyone involved. For me, it’s always about:
- PEOPLE: Collaboration, comfort, and meeting the needs of everyone involved.
- PLANET: Making conscious decisions in every choice that impacts the environment.
- PARTY: Keeping it balanced without going to extremes.
2. No Single-Use Plastics: Avoid single-use plastics wherever possible.
3. Venue Selection: Choose an outdoor venue, and pick a location convenient for guests to minimize travel emissions. The journey time matters just as much today as the event itself!
4. Conscious Decorations: Embrace reusability and eco-friendly materials, and avoid balloons! Keep it simple—sometimes less is more. If you’re puzzled or need ideas, check for eco-friendly decor ideas on YouTube.
5. Food, Beverages, and Catering: Opt for seasonal and locally sourced foods, plan portion sizes carefully, and avoid plastic water bottles. Set up water stations instead. No plastic bottles!
6. Waste Reduction and Segregation: As you plan, think about what will go to waste after the event. Reconsider necessities and explore better alternatives. Partner with local recycling services for waste segregation and composting. Encourage guests to use the designated bins- clear signage helps!
7. Mindful Invitations: This is part of setting the theme and tone, not just for planners but also for guests. Invest time in choosing this thoughtfully. Your guests will appreciate it!
8. Transportation: Include carpooling, public transport, and shuttle service options in your e-invites. Know your guests and prioritize their safety and convenience.
Government Initiative: Tamil Nadu’s “Lifestyle for Climate” Certification.
The Tamil Nadu Climate Change Mission is developing a “Lifestyle for Climate” certification to promote sustainability and responsible practices at large gatherings. This green certification assesses and rewards venues that implement sustainable measures like renewable energy, waste reduction, and efficient waste management.
Does Hosting an Eco-Friendly Event Make an Impact?
Absolutely! Earth’s Overshoot Day this year fell on August 1, meaning we exhausted the year’s resources within just 7 months. We’re currently consuming at a rate 1.7 times higher than what the Earth can handle. Hosting an eco-friendly event is a step toward sustainable resource use, helping you and your guests contribute positively to the environment.
YOU and I KNOW—We Need to Act!
We all recognize climate change is real. The challenge lies in changing our behaviors, not just our beliefs. Imagine the impact of shifting our habits, especially around large events, where the potential for waste is immense.
Together, we can make a difference. Let’s make our celebrations meaningful and do our part for the planet. 🌍
“We are the first generation to feel the impacts of climate change and the last generation to do something about it.”
Let’s turn intention into action. Make your next event green and inspiring for everyone involved!
Author: Praveenraj, Operations Associate at Beyond Sustainability, defines himself as #minimalist, #calm, and #disciplined. His superpowers—consistency, flexibility, and subtlety—are key to his approach to managing operations effectively.
