Sustainability has become one of the most important conversations in business today, and for good reason. Across the travel, meetings, and events sector, there’s a real opportunity to make a meaningful difference, not just for the planet, but for the future of our industry.
The decisions we make today can shape a more responsible and resilient tomorrow.
A Chance to Lead Positive Change
The global events industry has a big footprint, contributing around 1.2 billion tonnes of CO₂e every year. That’s more than the yearly emissions of the USA and India combined. It’s a significant number, but instead of seeing it as a challenge, we can view it as a chance to lead.
At Greengage, we work with businesses to turn ambition into action. Whether it’s through sustainability certification, measuring event carbon emissions, or providing expert advice and training, our focus is on practical solutions that help organisations make real progress.
What is the Importance of Sustainability?
1. The Environmental Impact Is Real
From travel and catering to lighting and waste, events can carry a large environmental footprint. By making thoughtful choices, like cutting down on single-use plastics, choosing lower-emission travel options, or sourcing locally, we can reduce that impact significantly. Small changes really do add up.
2. Guests Expect It
People are increasingly conscious of sustainability and want to support businesses that reflect their values. Attendees notice the details, from refillable water stations to plant-based catering. Demonstrating care for the environment can enhance the attendee experience and strengthen your brand reputation.
3. It’s Good for Business
Sustainability is a smart investment. It can help reduce costs, attract new clients, and open doors to funding or partnerships that prioritise environmental responsibility. As more organisations set their own sustainability targets, they’re looking for event partners who can help them meet them.
4. It Future-Proofs Your Organisation
As regulations around waste, emissions, and energy use become stricter, being proactive puts your business ahead of the curve. Building sustainable practices now means fewer last-minute adjustments later and shows leadership in a changing industry. (You can learn more about the latest regulations from our latest webinar recording).
5. Events Can Drive Positive Change
Events are powerful platforms for influence. Whether it’s a conference, an awards night, or a team away day, every gathering is an opportunity to lead by example. When sustainability is built in from the start, events can inspire action, spark conversations, and leave a positive legacy beyond the day itself.
6. It’s About People Too
Sustainability isn’t just environmental – it’s also social. Creating inclusive, accessible, and community-conscious events is part of building a more sustainable industry. When we take care of people and the planet, everyone benefits.
Thinking Long-Term, Acting with Purpose
Sustainability is about looking ahead. It’s about creating experiences that people value, while being thoughtful about the impact they have. More clients, attendees, and stakeholders are seeking out businesses that care about the environment. Meeting those expectations builds trust – and it also makes good business sense.
By choosing more sustainable venues, reducing unnecessary travel, and weaving eco-friendly thinking into how we plan events, we’re creating a better experience for everyone. The earlier businesses start making these changes, the more confident and prepared they’ll be for the future.
Every Step Counts
Sustainability doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Every event presents an opportunity to take a step forward. With the right tools, it becomes easier to understand where emissions are coming from and how to reduce them.
Our carbon measurement tools help businesses plan events with clarity and intention. You don’t have to wait until after the event to figure out the impact – you can build sustainability in right from the beginning, and make informed choices along the way.
Growing Knowledge, Raising Standards
Creating long-term impact means giving people the confidence and skills to lead. That’s why we offer sustainability training and consulting tailored to the events industry. When teams understand how to make more sustainable decisions, those actions become part of the everyday.
For businesses ready to take it a step further, our ECOsmart Certification helps showcase environmental commitment in a credible and meaningful way. It’s a great way to stand out and show leadership in a changing industry.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
The importance of sustainability isn’t just about responding to risk. It’s about seeing what’s possible. With the right approach, the events and travel industries can be powerful forces for good – bringing people together while being kinder to the planet.
At Greengage, we’re excited about what lies ahead. The tools, knowledge, and momentum are all there. What’s needed now is action.
Let’s work together to create events that do more than bring people together. Let’s create events that leave a lasting, positive impact. Get in touch today.
