Plastic-Free July: A Path to a Sustainable Events Business
What is Plastic Free July?
Plastic Free July is a global movement encouraging people to reduce their plastic consumption and make more sustainable choices. Since it’s start in 2011, an estimated 140 million people worldwide have participated in Plastic Free July at some point, highlighting the growing global commitment to reducing plastic waste. What an incredible impact!
As an industry, we are encouraging all to join us in trying out Plastic Free July, as it presents a prime opportunity for event businesses to lead by example, showcasing that sustainability and celebration can go hand in hand. We have some simple tips on how to start to reduce plastic use in your business.
Even the butter is free from plastic containers and used as a source of decor by Chowgirls.
1. Evaluate and Educate
The first step to reducing plastic is understanding where it's being used. Conduct a thorough audit of your event supplies, from decor to dining. Identify areas where single-use plastics are prevalent and seek sustainable alternatives.
Education is equally important. Inform your team, clients, and attendees about the importance of reducing plastic. Share facts or include information in your event materials to raise awareness and inspire collective action.
2. Choose Sustainable Vendors
Seek out working with vendors who share your commitment to sustainability, not only in their business but in their lifestyle too. Look for vendors offering eco-friendly products but also are transparent and open about their commitments to sustainability on their websites and behind the scenes. Partnering with like-minded suppliers not only reduces plastic waste but also strengthens the sustainability network within the events industry.
Chowgirls utilizes reusables first, then adding in compostable napkins and boats made of bamboo.
Menu’s printed on hemp paper from Smart Set
Paikka offers bar service with plastic free water dispencers.
3. Rethink Decorations
Event decor is often the biggest source of plastic waste we see. Instead of balloons and plastic streamers, consider reusable or natural-fiber decorations. Fabric banners, wooden signs, and potted plants or flowers are some ideas for plastic-free materials you could explore. There are 100% latex balloon options, but unless your balloon artist composts them, it’s best to skip them. When renting items ask for items not to be wrapped in plastic, unless they will be reused.
After the event, these items can be reused, repurposed, or donated, extending their lifecycle. Find a place to donate like a theater or school!
4. Innovate with Invitations & Signage
Traditional plastic-laminated invitations or gold-foils can be replaced with digital or 100% paper alternatives. E-invites not only save plastic but also reduce paper waste. For those who prefer physical invites, choose recycled paper options and avoid plastic coatings. We love a paper invitation so we are always working on swapping for compostable papers like hemp, sugar-based papers, and falcon-board/honeycomb for posterboards instead of foam core or vinyl.
If you want to learn even more, we love the work of Little Fox Designs on all things green printing and paper.
5. Swap for Reusables
Food and beverage is often rife with single-use plastics, but there are many options for passing on the plastic. Replace plastic cutlery, straws, and cups with compostable or reusable alternatives. Provide water refill stations instead of bottled water. Collaborate with caterers who recycle their plastic film and do their best to reduce plastic container use by reusing or avoiding it.
There are now so many amazing companies like R World offering reusable cups at major stadiums or large events.
Properly sorting your waste at the end of the event can make a world of difference.
7. Implement a Waste Management Plan
A robust waste management plan is crucial for any event or business to know exactly how much waste there is to account for. Ensure that recycling and compost bins are clearly marked and easily accessible. You can find resources for signage through your local county website. Work on educating attendees on proper disposal practices through signage and announcements. Partner with your venue or local waste management companies to ensure that waste is processed correctly and efficiently.
8. Measure and Celebrate Your Impact
Track the progress of your plastic reduction efforts both in your business and at your events. Measuring your impact not only provides valuable insights but also motivates further action. It’s so great to see on paper the work your team has put in, as it truly makes a difference when added up! Then it’s time to celebrate your achievements by sharing them with your clients, attendees, and community.
One Step at a Time
We completely understand that it is nearly impossible to operate plastic-free in our current world. But by taking steps to reduce plastic, your events business can play a significant role in the global movement towards sustainability. Plastic Free July is more than just a campaign; it's a call to action, a chance to innovate, and an opportunity to demonstrate your leadership. We can’t do it alone, but we can do more together!
Together, we can make every celebration a testament to our dedication to a greener, plastic-free world and inspire our clients and community that it is possible to build a different future.
Photos by Nylon Saddle
