Waste Not, Want Not: The sustainability imperative
What's new? Events have a massive impact on the environment. And we’re not just talking trash. The Global Events Industry is responsible for over 10% of global CO2 emissions, matching the yearly emissions of the entire United States. Travel is the largest contributor to event emissions. In addition, events produce an average of 2.5 pounds of landfill waste per attendee per day.
Why it matters. Post-COVID, in-person events are once again in high demand and expanding at record levels. By 2032, the Global Events Industry is projected to hit $1.75 trillion, with a 12% annual growth rate (CMI Research).
Zooming out: The show must go on but with sustainable events as a catalyst for innovation and a competitive differentiator for all stakeholders: People, Planet & Profit. The biggest industry challenge is balancing events’ exponential growth with the urgent need to cut emissions by 45% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050 as set by the Paris Agreement.
Sustainability takes center stage. No longer just a trend, sustainability is a strategic imperative and the primary source of responsible innovation for the future of events. “Companies, now more than ever, are implementing measures to ensure their events run on the principles of eco-friendliness and social responsibility.” Jordan Kaye, CEO & Founder of Analog Events Forbes.
Change is happening. Massive Attack’s groundbreaking eco-friendly concert, a 35,000-capacity concert, was powered by 100% renewable energy, served a 100% vegan menu, and provided emissions-free transportation for concert goers. It is a beacon of change for sustainable live music events. A Greener Future (AGF) co-founder Claire O’Neill hails it as a “new dawn” and validates that “economics have caught up with environmental reasoning.”
Out with the old white glove. In with the new green glove.
Future sustainable events with greener positive impacts start with a planning framework for transparent carbon measurement, innovative sustainable operations, a deep commitment to social responsibility, and alignment with the United Nation’s SDGs.
Bottom Line. As the global events industry expands, so does its responsibility to the Planet. The shift towards sustainable practices isn’t just necessary—it’s a strategic imperative. Sustainability is the new standard for event excellence. It’s time to put on a new green glove and ensure that the future of events prioritizes People, Planet, & Profit in equal measure.
Pro Tip: Chiefly & Co.’s Green Glove framework brings events strategy & planning in line with sustainability goals. Contact us here to get started.
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