A guide to sustainable Meetings & Events from BCD M&E
BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E) have released their 2024 Sustainability Guide to help drive responsible practices within the meetings and events space. The Guide offers valuable insights, practical steps, and creative ideas for making events more eco-friendly and socially responsible. From selecting venues to planning meals, it covers a wide range of sustainability practices that go beyond just being green.
The Guide shouldn’t be confused with BCD’s recently released 2024 Sustainability Report. Our annual report summarizes the activities, achievements, and progress against key performance indicators covering the calendar year 2023. BCD’s sustainability efforts run across our family of brands. BCD M&E’s Guide is specific to the meetings and events industry.
Sustainability in events isn’t easy
Sustainability in events doesn’t come without challenges. From cost concerns to managing food waste and minimizing travel-related emissions, it can be a balancing act. However, there are opportunities hidden within these challenges. BCD M&E recommend prioritizing venue selection to reduce the carbon footprint of travel and opting for local suppliers to cut down on transportation emissions. By making thoughtful choices, we can offer sustainable solutions without sacrificing attendee experience.
In fact, a sustainable event can even enhance that experience. “A sustainable event allows a company to differentiate itself,” said Mary Carmen Ramirez, Commercial Director at BCD M&E LATAM, pointing out how social and environmental responsibility can positively impact brand image.
What’s the real impact of sustainability in meetings and events?
One of the most eye-opening aspects of sustainability is the data behind it. During a typical five-day conference, 2,500 attendees can use 62,500 plates, 87,500 napkins, and 90,000 cans or bottles. The environmental impact adds up quickly, which is why taking steps like offering vegetarian menus or reducing printed materials can make a significant difference.
A need for eco-conscious event planning
BCD M&E has taken significant steps in helping businesses and event planners navigate the complexities of sustainability. As Mikael Ek, Managing Director EMEA, BCD M&E, said, “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword–it is the future.” And that future is well underway, with more and more companies recognizing the need for eco-conscious planning.
Whether you’re just starting on this journey or looking to refine your current efforts, BCD M&E has developed a Sustainability Toolkit that includes practical resources like venue scorecards and best practices. Our goal? To inspire responsible decisions, but also to show that sustainability is a collective effort.
“There’s a lot of potential for positive change,” according to Patrick Ockendon, Client Development Director for The Collective by BCD M&E, the group’s specialized brand experience agency.
Small steps, big results
One of BCD M&E’s core messages is that you don’t have to do everything at once. “Taking any action, no matter how small, is a positive step forward,” advised Ben Hoeksma, Senior Director and Global Program Lead at BCD M&E. Whether it’s, incorporating more plant-based meals, or selecting venues with strong sustainability programs, small actions add up.
At a recent BCD M&E event in Australia, our colleagues partnered with Indigenous communities to provide goods and services and share local culture with attendees. This not only supported the local economy but also enriched the event’s cultural experience – a win for both sustainability and attendee engagement.
Sustainability isn’t just about ticking a few boxes; it’s about creating a long-term mindset. BCD M&E is leading the charge by developing guidelines and offering tools to help planners create more sustainable events. But this is only the beginning.
If you’re interested in learning more, download BCDM&E’s 2024 Sustainability Guide. From practical tips to long-term strategies, the Guide is a fantastic resource. Plus, the team at BCD M&E is always available to answer your questions and help tailor sustainability efforts to your specific needs.
