In today’s world, sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. When it comes to meetings and events, incorporating sustainable practices is crucial for reducing our environmental impact and fostering a more eco-conscious culture. At The Wesley, we’re proud of our commitment to sustainability and we want to help you plan meetings that not only achieve your goals but do so with minimal environmental impact. Here are some tips for planning a sustainable meeting at The Wesley:
1. Choose a Sustainable Venue
The venue plays a significant role in the sustainability of your meeting. At The Wesley, we are committed to environmentally friendly practices, from energy-efficient lighting and water conservation systems to our waste management and recycling initiatives. By choosing The Wesley, you’re already supporting a venue that takes its responsibility to the planet seriously.
2. Go Paperless
One of the easiest ways to make your meeting more sustainable is to reduce paper waste. Opt for digital invitations, agendas, and presentations rather than printing them out. Encourage attendees to bring laptops or tablets to take notes instead of using paper and pens. If printing is necessary, ensure that recycled paper is used.
3. Choose Eco-Friendly Catering Options
Catering is often one of the most resource-intensive aspects of a meeting. At The Wesley, we work closely with local suppliers to offer sustainable and seasonal food choices. Consider opting for plant-based or locally sourced menu items to reduce the environmental footprint of your event. Additionally, providing water in pitchers or reusable bottles instead of individual plastic bottles can significantly cut down on waste.
4. Limit Travel Impact
With The Wesley’s central locations in Camden Town and Euston, we are ideally situated to reduce the need for extensive travel. Encourage attendees to use public transport, bike, or walk to the venue. We even offer bike racks at both of our properties to support eco-friendly commuting. For those who do need to travel longer distances, consider offering virtual participation options to reduce the overall environmental impact.
5. Reduce Single-Use Items
While some single-use items, like name tags, might seem unavoidable, many alternatives are available. Use digital event platforms for attendee lists or consider using reusable or biodegradable name badges. Similarly, opt for reusable cutlery, cups, and plates rather than disposables. The Wesley can assist with sourcing sustainable options that align with your eco-conscious goals.
6. Incorporate Sustainable Décor
While décor can help set the tone of your event, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of decorations. Opt for reusable items such as fabric tablecloths and banners, or repurpose materials from previous events. Floral arrangements made from local, seasonal flowers or even potted plants can add a touch of greenery without contributing to waste.
7. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Technology can streamline your meeting and make it more sustainable. Use apps for event scheduling, messaging, and collaboration to reduce the need for printed materials. Additionally, consider hosting a hybrid meeting to allow virtual participation, which can reduce travel-related carbon emissions.
8. Set a Green Goal for Your Meeting
When planning a sustainable meeting, it’s helpful to set clear sustainability goals. For example, aim to reduce paper use by 50%, serve only locally sourced food, or ensure that 90% of your guests use public transport to attend the meeting. These goals can provide a framework for making decisions throughout the planning process and ensure that your meeting stays on track toward sustainability.
9. Promote Waste Reduction
At The Wesley, we prioritise waste management and recycling, but it’s also important for event organisers and attendees to do their part. Encourage guests to be mindful of waste and provide clearly marked recycling bins throughout the venue. Reducing waste goes beyond food and drink—be mindful of disposable products and encourage people to bring their own reusable items.
10. Offset Carbon Emissions
If your event requires travel or has a larger environmental footprint, consider offsetting your carbon emissions. Several companies offer carbon offset programmes that fund renewable energy, reforestation, or other environmental projects. It’s a great way to ensure that your event is contributing positively to the planet.
Learn More About Our Green Meetings and Events
For more information on how we’ve made sustainability a core part of our meetings and events offering, visit our dedicated Green Meetings and Events page. You’ll find further details on how we’ve integrated sustainable practices into our venues, catering, and services. Ready to make your next meeting more sustainable? Book a green meeting with us today and join us in reducing the environmental impact of your events.
