Since 1970, Earth Day has promoted education and policy to activate the environmental movement worldwide. Here are five ways our industry can affect positive change …
Technology
Remember the iconic KISS logo made of “hot lights” that the band toured with for decades? By today’s standards, that would gobble up most of one complete distro. Our industry has become much more efficient in regards to power consumption. Here are a few technologies that decrease power consumption onsite …
- Laser-phosphor projectors
- LED displays
- LED-based stage lighting
Hub and Spoke
Gathering in one location is important for some events but others might consider the alternative of Hub and Spoke. Meeting in multiple regions reduces air travel, hotel stays, and HVAC for larger-than-necessary facilities.
Spoke locations still participate as though they were at the spoke location. In fact, it’s completely possible to have bi-directional capabilities to include every spoke location at points throughout the event.
Transportation and Logistics
Most modern fleets (trucks and buses) are far cleaner and more efficient than their predecessors. Our fleet, and most other companies too, are Clean Air Certified which means they meet the most recent standards set forth by the EPA.
Partnering with a single-source vendor versus multiple will reduce emissions by simply reducing the number of delivery vehicles. Minimizing offsite events and/or utilizing the same buses has the same effect.
Venues
Some venues are inherently green (amphitheaters, parks, blank-slate warehouses, etc.). Venues that have a lot of infrastructure (hotels, event centers, convention facilities, arenas, etc.) can still qualify for LEED Certification.
Making LEED Certification and asking about other green initiatives should be part of site visits and site selection.
Reuse and Recycle
Speaking of other green initiatives, it seems obvious but event professionals should actively reuse and recycle as much as possible. From compostable plates to stage carpeting, there are tons of places our industry can make a difference.
Pro Tip: Some communities and organizations provide financial incentives for green initiatives … it’s worth looking into programs that might be available in the location of your next event!
Like anything else, event professionals should partner with clients, vendors, and facilities that share their values and culture. Our industry has already made huge advances affecting positive change but there’s always room for improvement.
At Encompass, we have unique backgrounds that situate us perfectly to produce high end and complex offerings. We’ve worked in broadcast television, touring entertainment, live sporting events, and countless convention facilities across the country.
We have technical design experience and a disciplined process in place that allows us to easily scale events and shift from in-person to virtual without angst. There isn’t much that’s beyond our scope and we love the intensity of putting on events!
If you’re a planner working to create an event, seeking help with virtual event technology, or simply want to learn more … we can help! Sign up below to receive our updates (we promise to keep your contact information secure and won’t “overshare”).