Earth Day Is Every Day - A Green Meetings Quick Guide

Kermit said it best, "it ain't easy being green"!  Truth be told, it really IS very easy to be green when planning an event. 

I've compiled a list of tips and resources to help you become a more eco-conscious planner because honestly folks, we only have one Mama Earth and to celebrate her one day out of the year probably makes her pretty daggone blue!

Enjoy the compilation of resources and sites I've pulled together to help you plan events that make a lasting impact...but won't leave a huge carbon footprint.

EVENT PLANNING TIPS

1.  Use technology to your advantage!  Use electronic communication for Save the Date cards, invitations and surveys.  Place all materials related to the meeting on a flash drive for event attendees. It not only saves money but gives us more of a reason to celebrate Arbor Day on April 26th! Kiss a tree today ;)

2.  If it has been re-used, then use it!  Use recyclable paper, name badge holders, lanyards, plastic sign holders, etc.  Green meeting products can be found all over the internet --> http://greenmeetings.usfi.com/GreenMeetingsProducts.aspx

3.  None of us would argue that signage is necessary but digital signage is just as effective and already integrated in many hotels and event venues around the world.  Use eco-friendly vendors for physical signs. 

4.  Choose event venues wisely.  Ask about their commitment to sustainability and policies and practices; when in doubt, research for yourself!  See facilities information below.

5.  Food and Beverage - Go local, use glassware and silverware, place compost and recycling bins near meal function space, plan for "hydration stations" vs. purchasing bottled water.

RESOURCES

Best Practices
CIC/APEX Standards
http://www.conventionindustry.org/StandardsPractices/APEXASTM.aspx

ASTM Standards
http://www.astm.org/standardization-news/update/green-meeting-standards-ma12.html

Green Meeting Industry Council
http://www.gmicglobal.org/

Government Agency Guidance
Center for Disease Control & Prevention Sustainable Meetings and Resources
http://www.cdc.gov/sustainability/greenmeetings/index.htm

Environmental Protection Agency Resources
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/greenmeetings/


Facilities
How to Assess Facilities
http://meetingsnet.com/green-meetingscsr/green-meeting-venues-how-assess-them

Supplier Directory
http://gmic.officialbuyersguide.net/

List of Conference Facilities That Meet IACC Code of Sustainability
http://www.iacconline.org/education/index.cfm?fuseaction=environmental

US Green Building Council
http://www.usgbc.org/


Blogs and Articles
ASAE Green Meetings Resource List
http://www.asaecenter.org/Resources/content.cfm?ItemNumber=48865

EVenues
http://blog.evenues.com/post/2012/10/24/Why-Green-Meetings-Matter.aspx

ConventionPlanit.com
http://www.conventionplanit.com/green_meetings.php

GEP Destination Management
http://www.gepdmc.com/tag/green-meetings/

Cvent Blog
http://www.cvent.com/en/event-management-software/green-meetings-made-easy.shtml

Going Green DC
http://www.conventionplanit.com/green_meetings.php