Big Energy Saving Week - But how does this help the events industry?
Big Energy Saving Week, held annually in the UK, aims to raise awareness of energy efficiency and the role we all play in reducing our environmental impact. This initiative not only encourages individuals to take steps in their own homes to reduce energy usage but also calls on businesses, communities, and events to integrate more sustainable practices. While the campaign runs for just one week, the principles of energy saving, sustainability, and efficiency can (and should) inform our strategies year-round.
For event planners, businesses, and anyone involved in the organisation of events, Big Energy Saving Week offers inspiration on how to adopt greener practices—whether it’s incorporating reusable materials into exhibition stands, writing clear, sustainable messaging, or considering energy-efficient solutions throughout the entire event lifecycle or your office! We will explore how the key lessons we have taken from Big Energy Saving Week can be used to inform your event planning for 2025, ensuring that sustainability isn’t just a tick box, but a fundamental part of your strategy.
This blog is perfect for anyone who plans or organises events, whether you’re a seasoned professional, a corporate planner, or someone tasked with arranging occasional gatherings for colleagues, family, or friends. As businesses and individuals alike continue to be more conscious of their environmental impact, Big Energy Saving Week serves as a timely reminder to embed sustainability into everything we do. But don’t worry—while the week itself is short-lived, the mindset of saving energy and reducing waste can be a key factor in the way we think about events year-round.
If you’re planning your events calendar for the upcoming year, we will give you the insights you need to align your event strategy with sustainability goals. By the end, you’ll have actionable ideas that will not only make your events more eco-friendly but also more relevant!
Turning the principles of Big Energy Saving Week into practical event ideas is an exciting challenge. Here are some ways to incorporate the themes of energy saving and sustainability into events for your friends, colleagues, family, or clients:
- Green Venue Selection: Choose venues that prioritise sustainability, whether it’s through energy-efficient buildings, waste reduction practices, or the suppliers that they recommend.
- Reusable Exhibition Stands: Instead of creating new displays for every event, design modular, reusable exhibition stands with branding and key messaging that can adapted for multiple shows. This will reduce the need for wasteful production of new materials – and even save you money! (Keep your budget for those pizza Fridays)
- Virtual Events: In addition to live events, offer virtual or hybrid alternatives that allow a wider audience to participate without the need for travel.
- Sustainable Catering: Opt for locally sourced, seasonal, and vegetarian or plant-based catering options, which often have a lower carbon footprint than meat-heavy menus. (You would be surprised at the difference it makes to even reduce the red meat options at your next conference)
- Eco-Friendly Giveaways: We all love a freebie at events but look into the materials your merch is made out of and search for greener alternatives – even consider if you need merch at all!
- Energy-Efficient Lighting and AV: Ensure your event uses energy-efficient lighting and audio-visual equipment to reduce energy consumption. (Your supplier can advise you on this if you are unsure)
- Post-Event Carbon Offset: If you are working on a larger event and would like to look into your carbon footprint, you can calculate the carbon footprint of your event and invest in carbon offset schemes to neutralise the impact. (If you need any help with this – We can help!)
- Interactive Sustainability Stations: Set up small stations at events where attendees can learn about energy-saving tips, sustainable practices, and renewable energy options, this could be in the form of a game to keep people engaged.
- Digital Materials: Move away from paper programmes and brochures where possible and opt for digital materials via apps, websites, or QR codes.
- Transport Solutions: Encourage the use of public transport, cycling, or car-sharing for event attendees, possibly offering incentives such as discounted tickets or special access for those who opt for greener transport options.
- Sampling/ Roadshows: Have you considered creating a touring roadshow to educate people on your event or messaging? This can be done using electric vehicles, or if you aren’t quite there yet, you can use a mobile set up or a standard vehicle! We ran a carbon neutral campaign for Coca Cola and toured the UK, draw inspiration from us!
Turning these ideas into a reality requires careful planning, collaboration, and awareness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a more sustainable event:
- Set Clear Sustainability Goals: Determine the key sustainability objectives for your event. For example, do you want to reduce waste, lower energy consumption, or encourage the use of sustainable materials?
- Select a Green Venue: Research venues that are committed to sustainability. Ask about their energy efficiency measures, waste disposal protocols, and any green certifications they may have.
- Work with Green Suppliers: Partner with suppliers who offer eco-friendly products, such as reusable event materials, sustainable catering, and energy-efficient equipment.
- Create a Waste Management Plan: Create a plan for your waste disposal that includes recycling and composting where possible, and ensure that waste is minimised for your event.
- Incorporate Tech: Utilise apps or websites for event programmes, maps, and ticketing to reduce paper use. QR Codes can be updated without reprinting so consider these as a great alternative for sharing information.
- Promote Public Transport and Carpooling: Provide incentives for those using public transport, if you can’t provide an incentive then look to promote and inform people of how they can get to your event using public transport – include stations and routes where you can.
- Feedback: Gather feedback from attendees on their experience of the event’s sustainability efforts and identify areas for improvement for future events.
Now lets start integrating these factors into your event planning strategy for 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re planning large conferences, exhibitions, or smaller gatherings, there’s always an opportunity to reduce your environmental footprint no matter how small it may seem. The key takeaway is that sustainability doesn’t have to be an afterthought—make it central to your event strategy, and you’ll not only benefit the environment but also appeal to a growing audience who values these practices.
If you need some help getting started, contact us for some friendly advice on making some small steps in sustainability with huge changes!
Where to start looking for more inspiration?
To help you make your events more sustainable, here are some useful resources:
- Sustainable event venues to hire – Best practices to consider.
- Tips for eating more sustainably – Does what it says on the tin.
- Energy Saving Trust – Resources and tips for energy efficiency.
WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme) – Guides on reducing waste in events and promoting sustainability.
