Small steps, big impact: Creating sustainable venues for a greener future  

Have you ever considered how events are managed sustainably or wondered if your efforts can make a difference? Whether it’s a concert, a gaming event, or a festival, sustainability should be thought about beforehand and not an afterthought. Adding sustainability to the planning process helps protect the planet, improves community culture, and boosts positive brand perception.  

Brand perception and sustainable events  

Sustainability doesn’t just reduce environmental impact; it shapes how stakeholders and clients perceive you and your brand. A commitment to sustainable and socially responsible events can build trust and influence event success. Sustainability practices touch on many aspects, including energy, travel, waste, water, and more, influencing how people experience an event.   

• For Americans, 80 percent agree that a waste-free lifestyle is possible in the next 20 years.    

• According to Forbes, 87 percent of consumers favor a company when it actively backs social or environmental causes.   

There are several things you can do when having a sustainable event. You can start small. Venues can be sustainable, helping events to adhere to best practices while allowing your event to be environmentally friendly. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming and complex.   

How to embrace sustainable events  

1. Choose locally sourced, quality giveaways.  

2. Embrace hybrid events to reduce travel, pollution, and carbon emissions.  

3. Select local food suppliers to lessen transport emissions and support community businesses.  

4. Plan menus with local, seasonal foods to reduce transportation impact and support local communities.  

5. Partner with suppliers who will donate leftovers or compost waste.  

6. Choose venues powered by renewable energy sources, like solar or wind.  

7. Use digital tools to simplify event planning and execution.  

8. Encourage sustainable, reusable items made from recycled materials.  

There are many best practices that organizations can take to become sustainable. Implementing sustainable practices offers tangible benefits to:  

• Foster a holistic approach to sustainability, considering economic, environmental, and social impacts.  

• Strengthen organizational reputation and brand value.  

• Achieve best practice levels of efficiency and performance.  

• Define roles and responsibilities for staff, contractors, and suppliers.  

• Cut costs through better energy and waste management.  

Implementing sustainability requires more than just intention; it takes programs and resources to lead organizations toward lasting change. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a comprehensive framework for a better future, urging organizations to prioritize sustainability today, not later.  

Over time, even small changes can create considerable impact, as these small steps turn into bigger ones and more progress. This drives positive change for people, the planet, and prosperity. By embracing the right framework, organizations can provide events that contribute to a sustainable future and legacy.  

What’s the solution?  

Sustainable event management can aid in a path toward a brighter future for both humanity and our planet. An Event Sustainability Management System (ISO 20121) is an internationally recognized standard that allows your company to minimize environmental and economic impacts, enhance performance, and secure unwavering support. It’s exceptionally valuable for the entertainment and events industry.   

This standard can help elevate your events to new heights of success and responsibility. An event sustainability management system allows organizations to have impactful events. An example is the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which used this standard to highlight sustainability on a global stage while accomplishing remarkable results.   

Noted ISO 20121 sustainable events certified by BSI  

1. The International Monetary Fund - The International Monetary Fund (IMF) achieved ISO 20121 certification at its spring and annual meetings in Washington, DC, showing commitment to minimizing environmental, economic, and social impacts.  

2. BSI case study: Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy - Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA), host of the London 2012 Olympic sailing events, cut utility costs by 15 percent through ISO 20121. The certification strengthened its reputation, assured legal compliance, and boosted sustainability. 

3. BSI case study: Goodwood event operations team - In May 2012, Goodwood became one of the first organizations certified to ISO 20121. This certification allowed proactive measures to promote opportunities for improvement, such as a 40 percent increase in public transportation use and a 50 percent decrease in paper consumption.  

These examples highlight the revolutionary impact of ISO 20121 certification on event sustainability, fostering measurable improvements and promoting global recognition. 

How we can help  

If you have not joined the sustainable community, there's no better time than now. Businesses, no matter the size, can deliver world-class events regardless of potential budget or time restrictions and BSI can partner with you. As a responsible consumer and company, you can make a difference by choosing sustainable products and helping companies that prioritize sustainability.  

With our guidance, you can confidently implement sustainable practices and make a meaningful impact. Join the sustainable event movement—together, we can create a brighter and greener future.  

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