Green Procurement: What #Eventprofs Need to Know

What is Green Procurement? It’s where you, and your organization (whether you are a meeting planning firm, or work for a corporation or association) have the greatest influence over the amount of waste generated and diverted from your event. This can be done through smart purchasing: products and services from companies and manufacturers that have demonstrated their commitment to both you, the industry and the environment.

Let’s face it – a product that is “green” is less harmful than the alternative.

So, what can you do? Here are some tips that are actionable, NOW:

• Put a policy in place. It is nice to be committed to being green, but what if your colleagues, suppliers, and delegates do not have the same level of understanding and commitment as you? THAT is why you need to document it. So that everyone involved knows what the expectation is, upfront.
• Incorporate terms in your agreements. If you are running a meeting that has a tradeshow component (large or small), it inevitably will create more waste. By incorporating your policy (or, just the relevant portions of it), along with examples of what is acceptable or not as part of your booth agreements, you will set the intention to be as environmentally conscious as possible.
• Have your venue on board. Most venues these days have SOME sort of policy or program in place in terms of green meetings. But just because they have a policy does not mean that they are living it each day. Do not simply rest on their laurels. Specify what you want and need upfront, and ensure that the agreement is in writing.
• Buy in bulk. Instead of sourcing purchases individually, and your vendors and exhibitors doing the same, buy in bulk – it saves everywhere!
• Incorporate a zero footprint policy. This is something that your vendors and exhibitors should be aware of – and should include the fact that they are to leave NOTHING behind – that way, they are bringing only what they need.
• Find the right partners. This can be with a variety of suppliers, but starting with the right venue is an excellent first step. Our list of members should be your first stop. 

Want to read more? Click here for an article on Top 10 Sustainable Event Trends for 2020.