Sustainability is transforming event planning from the ground up.
It is no longer just a trend or a box to check—it is becoming the standard that is redefining how events are organized and delivered. As event planners, it is essential to understand that sustainability goes beyond reducing waste or carbon offsets. It is about rethinking every aspect of an event, from venue selection to catering and transportation. But despite the increasing demand for eco-friendly practices, there are still significant barriers hindering progress.
In this blog, we will explore the challenges, strategies, and tangible steps event professionals can take to create truly sustainable, future-focused events.
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1) Event Sustainability: The Pressure to “Go Green”
2) The Cost of Sustainability: Barrier or Excuse?
3) Real Sustainability in Event Management: Key Steps
4) The Future of Sustainable Events
1) Event Sustainability - The Pressure to "Go Green"
Events have always been resource-heavy endeavors. From catering and transportation to marketing materials and single-use items, events can be one of the most unsustainable industries if left unchecked. The pressure to incorporate greener practices has surged, particularly as clients—and their audiences—demand more eco-consciousness.
According to a Global DMC Partners (GDP) survey, only 14% of event professionals incorporate sustainability into every program, with a surprising quarter of respondents rarely doing so. This data reveals a critical divide: while some regions, particularly in Europe, are prioritizing sustainability, others are struggling to do so due to financial constraints.
Why the Divide? North America vs. Europe
North American event planners are lagging behind their European counterparts when it comes to embedding sustainability into their programs. In fact, as reported on PCMA Convene’s latest article, 47% of North American planners incorporate sustainability “most of the time,” compared to 76% of their international colleagues. Why the gap? Some point to the cultural differences in prioritizing environmental issues, while others note that government regulations and client expectations play a bigger role in European markets.
This discrepancy isn't just a matter of optics—it impacts the planet, and it highlights an essential question: should sustainability be an afterthought based on client budgets, or should it be a non-negotiable part of every event?
2) The Cost of Sustainability - Barrier or Excuse?
According to research, almost four out of five event planners cite cost as the biggest obstacle to going green. More than half said they sometimes face financial difficulties when implementing sustainable practices. While it is true that certain eco-friendly alternatives might cost more up front, the long-term savings—both financially and environmentally—can outweigh these initial expenses. For instance, reducing waste, using digital alternatives to printed materials, and opting for locally sourced food can all lead to a smaller environmental footprint and a more streamlined budget.
But here is the rub: sometimes cost is used as a convenient excuse to avoid sustainability altogether. Some event planners and companies prioritize short-term gains over long-term impact. The reality is that most sustainable practices don’t have to break the bank, and often, they are not much more expensive than traditional methods. It is about making smarter choices rather than seeing sustainability as an add-on.
3) Real Sustainability in Event Management: Key Steps
Sustainability in event management can’t be achieved overnight, but there are tangible steps that every corporate event planner can take to move the needle. Here’s how:
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Rethink Materials and Waste
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Eliminate unnecessary printed materials - Digital alternatives are not only more sustainable but can also be more effective in engaging attendees. Additionally, aim to eliminate single-use plastics by providing reusable or biodegradable options.
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Opt for Locally Sourced and Plant-Based Catering - Catering is one of the biggest event resource drains. By choosing locally sourced ingredients, you reduce the carbon footprint of transportation. And while it may seem surprising, only 18% of event planners regularly choose plant-based menus. Plant-based catering options are one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce an event’s environmental impact.
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Choose Sustainable Suppliers - A large portion of event sustainability rests on the shoulders of your suppliers. By vetting your suppliers and ensuring they align with your sustainability goals, you create a ripple effect that impacts every aspect of your event.
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Engage Attendees in Sustainability - True sustainability doesn’t stop with the planners. Involve your attendees in the process by encouraging them to take sustainable actions, such as using digital tickets, participating in CSR-focused activities, or opting for plant-based meals. When attendees feel connected to the sustainability mission, they are more likely to contribute positively to the overall impact.
4) The Future of Sustainable Events
As we mentioned before, sustainability isn’t a fleeting trend; it is an expectation that will only grow stronger. Event planners must move beyond the surface-level approach and commit to genuine change. The future belongs to those who can create engaging, impactful events that prioritize sustainability without sacrificing quality or attendee experience.
While it is true that challenges remain—financial limitations, knowledge gaps, and client buy-in—these can no longer be used as excuses to avoid taking action.
Therefore, as we move forward, the conversation needs to shift from why to how we implement these changes and, more importantly, how we can do it authentically.
The good news is that the tools, technologies, and strategies to make a real difference are already available—what’s needed is the will to use them effectively.
