The Hidden Environmental Cost of Events: How Much Waste Do We Really Produce?

Updated October 2024

The Shocking Reality of Event Waste

Did you know that a typical corporate event with 500 attendees produces enough waste to fill an entire garbage truck? Many overlook this staggering impact. The hidden environmental cost of events is significant, contributing tonnes of waste to our landfills every year. But it doesn’t have to be this way—there are practical steps we can take to reduce waste and make events more sustainable.

How Much Waste Do Events Generate?

The amount of waste produced by events is astounding. A study by the Green Event Management Association found that the average conference attendee generates about 1.89 kg of waste per day (source: Green Event Management Association Report 2023). For larger events, such as festivals, the waste footprint can be even greater, with multi-day festivals generating several tonnes of refuse, often ending up in landfills.

To put this into perspective, a three-day festival with 5,000 attendees can produce over 15,000 kg of waste. In Australia alone, the events industry contributes to a substantial amount of the nation's yearly landfill burden. This is not just an environmental problem; it’s a missed opportunity to lead the charge in sustainable event planning.

The Types of Waste

The waste generated at events is diverse, ranging from food waste to promotional materials. Here's a breakdown:

• Food Waste: Leftover food is a significant contributor. In Australia, it's estimated that up to 40% of the food prepared at events goes uneaten.

• Single-Use Items: Items like plastic cutlery, plates, cups, and straws are commonly used at events. These items, often used for mere minutes, can take hundreds of years to decompose.

• Promotional Materials: Flyers, banners, and other promotional items often end up in the bin once the event concludes.

• Transport: The carbon footprint from attendees travelling to and from the event, especially those who fly, adds to the environmental cost.

Practical Steps to Reduce Event Waste

While these statistics are alarming, there are effective ways to reduce waste—and many of them are surprisingly simple.

1. Switch to Sustainable Name Badges

One easy way to reduce event waste is by using eco-friendly name badges and lanyards. Traditional plastic badges are single-use and often discarded immediately after an event. Instead, opting for fully biodegradable badges like those from Terra Tag can make a significant difference (source: Terra Tag Sustainability Pledge). Our badges are made from handmade recycled or plantable seed paper, meaning that not only do they avoid landfill—they help contribute to a greener environment.

2. Incentivise Reusable Cups and Utensils

According to research by EventWasteAustralia (source: EventWasteAustralia Study 2022), disposable food containers and drinkware are among the largest contributors to event waste. By providing incentives like discounts or prizes for attendees who bring their own reusable items, event planners can cut down dramatically on the number of disposables used.

3. Offer Digital Alternatives

Consider eliminating paper brochures and printed schedules. Instead, encourage attendees to use digital guides and event apps. A case study from Green Conference Solutions showed that an event that switched to digital materials saved over 500 kg of paper (source: Green Conference Solutions Case Study). This not only reduces waste but also makes the event more adaptable to last-minute changes.

Where Does Your Event Stand?

Are you curious about how your event stacks up? The average event has plenty of opportunities to reduce waste and be part of a positive change. Calculate your event's potential waste impact using tools like the Event Waste Footprint Calculator (link to tool: Event Waste Footprint Calculator). These calculators can provide an estimate of the waste generated per attendee and help you find specific areas for improvement.

Quick Wins for Reducing Event Waste

Here are a few simple, actionable steps you can take today to make your next event more sustainable:

• Provide Recycling Stations: Make recycling easy for attendees by having clearly labelled stations.

• Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Choose vendors who are committed to reducing single-use items.

• Eco-Friendly Giveaways: Instead of plastic swag, consider giveaways that are useful and sustainable, such as seed paper notepads.

Let’s Make Sustainability the Norm for Events

The environmental cost of events is undeniable, but we have the power to change this narrative. By choosing eco-friendly alternatives, reducing waste where possible, and making conscious decisions during the planning process, we can make events not only memorable but also environmentally responsible.

If you’re looking to make your next event as sustainable as possible, Terra Tag offers a variety of products to support your green goals. Let’s work together to leave a positive impact on our planet.

Contact us today to find out more about our sustainable solutions.