Sustainability Isn’t Just a Trend, It’s the Future of Events
Waste is a global problem and one that is tackled differently depending on your location. In the United States alone, each municipality has its own collection standards, diversion methods, and approaches to the circular economy. Worldwide, waste collection and disposal also vary. The Environmental Research and Education Foundation’s (EREF) research extends beyond domestic boundaries through its EREF Canada presence and international partnerships. This became especially clear during a research trip to Europe this June, where I saw firsthand the extensive preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Amid the excitement and anticipation for the athletes, my mind went to a familiar place: trash.
The success of a nation’s economy is linked to its waste. Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environmental Program, said in early 2024 that waste generation is intrinsically tied to GDP. This is not new. Bloomberg’s Chief Economist wrote over a decade ago that the “trash index” shows a strong statistical correlation with US economic growth. But what is the environmental impact of waste for something international, a large and infrequent event that gathers representatives from 184 countries? After some research, I found one clear answer: we have no idea. The variables are too high, and the environmental effects of global travel, local transit, housing, food, temporary event infrastructure, and waste are far too complex to generate data that would allow direct conclusions to be drawn.
So is that the end of the conversation, or is there something else we can measure? What about large events that do not encompass an entire city, like Paris in 2024, Atlanta in 1996, or Los Angeles in 2028? I think that is something we can better understand.
I discussed ways to consider tailgating more sustainably last year with ABC Chicago, and those ideas are still applicable. Take as few vehicles as possible. Be responsible with your waste by identifying the proper bins for waste and recycling or by bringing your own bags to discard at home later. Use reusable cups, linens, and utensils, and consider purchasing a souvenir cup that can be reused at future games. These are all helpful steps for consumers and attendees, but there is also an onus on event hosts to adopt and promote sustainability.
Convention centers, stadiums, performing arts centers, and even smaller venues like movie theaters can embrace sustainable practices. When you attend an event at any of these places, you cannot bring in food or drinks, which means the venue itself is responsible for most of the waste that will be discarded within its walls. The question is how they can maximize sustainable practices.
One effective strategy is implementing waste diversion programs, such as recycling and composting, supported by thorough planning, education, collaboration, and evaluation. Venues can start with a waste audit to identify the types and quantities of waste generated, then develop a detailed recycling plan that includes the materials to be recycled, bin placement, and collection logistics. Staff and attendees benefit from clear signage and educational campaigns. Color-coded bins, pre-event communications, and on-site information help guide proper recycling. Venues can also research which vendors use recyclable materials and partner with local recycling facilities to ensure collected recyclables are processed correctly. Disposal bins should be clearly marked, placed in high-traffic areas, and designed to be ADA accessible. Feedback from attendees, staff, and vendors can help identify areas for improvement and measure progress.
Comprehensive composting programs can also strengthen sustainability. By providing compost bins alongside trash and recycling bins, venues can significantly reduce the amount of organic material sent to landfills. Food scraps from concessions and biodegradable service ware can be diverted to composting facilities and turned into valuable resources. Earlier this year, EREF and the US Composting Council released a Composting State of Practice that detailed access, capacity, and ongoing challenges related to composting in the United States.
Zero-waste initiatives are also gaining popularity in event management. These programs aim to divert 90 percent or more of waste from landfills through reduction, reuse, and recycling. Eliminating single-use plastics, encouraging vendors to use recyclable or compostable packaging, and providing water refill stations to reduce bottle usage are common strategies. North Carolina State University offers a Zero Waste Checklist with ideas for diverting event waste. Cities like Austin, Seattle, and Washington, DC have also established programs to reach similar goals.
Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium (MBS) is one venue leading the sustainability charge. Last year, it became the world’s first stadium to receive Total Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE) Platinum certification. The stadium relies on a variety of green practices to achieve zero waste. These include using recyclable and compostable materials throughout the supply chain, operating a resource recovery room to reclaim and sort materials, implementing sustainability education and engagement programs for fans and staff, and placing recycling and compost bins in every suite. MBS also uses a water conservation system that collects rainwater for cooling towers and landscaping.
Before MBS, the Seattle Mariners made significant progress in waste reduction at T-Mobile Park, achieving a 96 percent waste diversion rate and earning the Green Glove Award for the highest recycling rate in Major League Baseball. T-Mobile Park provides details of its sustainability initiatives online, which include compostable and recyclable service ware, the purchase of carbon offsets and water restoration credits, zero waste education stations, sustainable transportation options, LED field lighting, and its role in founding the Green Sports Alliance.
Despite these successes, significant challenges remain. Implementing new waste management systems, training staff, and educating the public all require investment. Coordinating with multiple vendors and managing different waste streams can be complex. Vendors may be reluctant to shift to sustainable packaging or modify operations due to cost concerns, supply chain disruptions, or uncertainty about new processes. Venues can help by collaborating closely with vendors and offering solutions that benefit both sides, such as subsidies for sustainable packaging or bulk purchasing agreements that reduce costs.
Attendees may also resist change. Many people find it inconvenient to separate compostable items or may not wish to purchase reusable cups. A general lack of awareness about environmental impacts can lead to apathy or non-compliance. Education and engagement are key to overcoming this. Venues can run campaigns before and during events using signage, announcements, and digital platforms. Interactive activities, like waste sorting games or competitions, can make sustainability more approachable.
We have the science and technology to hold large events that are both enjoyable and sustainable. It is crucial for everyone involved to do their part. Event organizers and venue managers must prioritize sustainability in their planning and operations.
