Sustainability in MICE events is an important responsibility for agencies, suppliers, venues, in the meeting, incentive, conference and expo industry.
Sustainability in Event Management
Companies across the USA (and world) are continuing to embrace climate conscious operations for a greener, cleaner direction for the MICE events industry. It’s the future.
Greening events doesn’t mean compromising on quality or experience. With planning done correctly – we can effectively reduce our impact and still execute incredible events.
We recommend: Sustainable Venues
- Center for Architecture (Greenwich Village, NYC)
- Solar One (Lower East Side, NYC)
- Farm to People (Bushwick, Brooklyn NYC)
- Audreys Farmhouse (Hudson Valley, NY)
- Bloominghill Farm (Hudson Valley, NY)
- Loopwell (Montclair, NJ)
What to look for: Green certifications, sustainable preferred suppliers, renewable energy and operations.
We recommend: Sustainable Suppliers
Catering is one of the most waste-heavy elements of hosting most events. Partner with local vendors who prioritize seasonal, organic, and plant-forward menus. Avoid single-use plastics by choosing reusable or compostable dishware, and consider working with caterers who can donate surplus food to local shelters or banks.
- Relish (NYC)
- Lemons and Olives (NYC, the Hamptons, Miami)
- Greentop Farms (NYC)
Check in, event info, itineraries : Go digital
Digital event practices have been fairly popular for some time now – but it’s a really great way to green your event. Printing is in the past – and there is an app for almost everything you need to ensure your event runs smoothly.
Check out some of our favorite event management websites for planners:
And the best rated apps for guest experience:
- RSVPify (attendee check in)
- Kululu (photo sharing)
- Fliplet (brochures, gamification, live chat, engagement)
Reducing Travel Emissions: Sustainable incentives
Eco-friendly incentive travel involves reducing the environmental impact of corporate reward trips and incentives. Consider making conscious choices about incentive destinations, transportation, accommodations, activities, and waste management to align with corporate social responsibility goals.
Sustainable incentive ideas include:
- Sustainable venues and suppliers (see above)
- Supporting local businesses and resources
- Nature based incentives such as outdoor activities or team building
- Volunteer programs and corporate rewards
- Sustainable transport alternatives such as public transport and electric vehicles
- Sustainable corporate gifting
Sustainability isn’t about perfection, it’s about commitment to progression and change. Whether you’re planning a corporate off-site, an international sales summit, or a client appreciation evening, integrating greener practices into your corporate events in the U.S. is not only achievable but expected.
By setting a sustainable standard, your brand can demonstrate leadership, resonate with eco-conscious attendees, and reduce your environmental impact.
Let us know if your company is adopting new practices to support sustainability and we’ll feature you.
Smithsfields brings you the latest global MICE news for event profs. We publish destination content, a global supplier directory, event inspiration and incentive travel insights.
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The above information is for general guidance.
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