Responsible Events – for a more sustainable future
Sustainability has long been a topic of discussion in the events industry. In the past, the focus was mainly on food-related issues such as the use of disposable containers, food waste and plastic straws. Today, however, the issues have expanded to include the entire lifecycle of an event. In this blog we will explain the elements of a responsible event and how we at Aboa Events take them into account.
Environmentally responsible
Although the concept of responsibility has broadened, environmental responsibility remains an important part of a responsible event. It all starts with careful planning, considering what is needed for the event and why. Unnecessary consumption can be avoided, both economically and environmentally, through careful planning of demand.
Particular attention is paid to food-related issues. At Aboa Events we strive to minimise food waste, for example by asking participants to register for meals separately so that the amount of food can be optimised. We also favour locally produced and responsibly sourced ingredients and environmentally friendly equipments.
We also use rental and loan services when organising events. This means, for example, renting furniture, equipments and other necessary materials rather than buying them as disposable items. In this way we can reduce material waste and conserve natural resources.
Event materials are a concrete climate issue that needs careful consideration. For example, signs and important information can now be produced electronically, reducing unnecessary use of paper products.Electronic versions are often more versatile and, for example, moving images are more likely to grab participants’ attention than printed products.There are also a number of environmentally friendly alternatives to printed products, so it is worth exploring these options.
The choice of venue is an important part of environmental responsibility. The principle of ‘walkable meetings’ means choosing a venue that is easily accessible on foot or by public transport. This reduces emissions from participants’ transport and promotes sustainable mobility. Accommodation, catering and other services close to the venue enable participants to walk throughout the event.
Social Responsibility
Social responsibility refers to the responsibility towards both the participants and the people working at the event. Ensuring the welfare and safety of individuals is part of social responsibility.
At Aboa Events, this means fair wages, workplace safety, and adequate training. Every employee should have the opportunity to perform their work in peace and with the right tools. We also offer opportunities for young people and students to gain work experience by hiring interns and investing in both their orientation and the diversity of their tasks.
We also work to create a safe space, ensuring that all involved, both participants and staff, feel welcome and respected regardless of background, gender, ethnicity, or other personal characteristics.
Working with local stakeholder is also part of social responsibility. For us at Aboa Events, it is important to work with stakeholders whose businesses are located in the same city or area as the event. This collaboration not only supports the local economy but often also reduces transportation costs and emissions.
Economic Responsibility
Economic responsibility means sustainable solutions in all aspects of event procurement. Quality and sustainable buying also supports environmental and social responsibility. Careful budgeting and cost efficiency are essential. Aboa Events’ long-term partnerships with service providers ensure reliable services and good value for money.
Implementing economic responsibility also requires transparency. Aboa Events maintains an open dialogue with the customer about costs and revenues.
Involving participants
Responsible events cannot take place without the active involvement of participants. Open communication is key. Attendees need to know about the event’s sustainability goals and actions so that they can get involved and act accordingly.
At Aboa Events, we encourage participants to use environmentally friendly transport and strive to choose venues that are accessible to all participants. We also aim to be very accessible before and during the event to ensure that attendees receive all important information related to the event.
Social media channels are an excellent tool for engaging attendees. We are happy to help our clients set up social media channels for their event well in advance so that participants can follow the preparations and join in the discussion both before and during the event.
The importance of a website
A website is an essential part of running a successful and responsible event. It acts as a central information channel, providing participants with all the necessary information about the event in one place. The website can convey important messages about the event’s sustainability goals and actions, helping to engage participants.
The website also helps to reduce paper consumption as registrations, programmes and other information can be handled electronically. In addition, the website allows for interactivity and real-time communication with attendees, enhancing the overall experience and engagement with the event. Optimisations to improve the user experience, such as energy-efficient servers and user-friendly design, also support sustainability.
The principle of continuous improvement
Responsibility is not a one-off action, but an ongoing process. It is important for organisers to continuously evaluate and develop their activities, actively following new trends and best practices. This allows for continuous improvement and development of events.
Conclusion
Responsibility for events is a multifaceted concept. It requires a holistic approach. Only through careful planning, active participation and continuous development can we create events that are sustainable and responsible in terms of the environment, the community and the economy.
