Meeting News - August 11, 2008 - (Page 48)

chapter 2 2008 meeting planners handbook Lessons from My First Green Event With all the news about green efforts in the meeting industry, a funny thing happened to me: I was really inspired. So, in late February, I made my first efforts to make Successful Meetings University events more environmentally friendly. In addition to reducing bulky registration materials, reusing badges, and encouraging everyone to recycle for SMU – Southeast, I asked my suppliers to take a sustainable approach to our food and beverage events. I also brought in industry educators who could speak about the importance of being eco-conscious and mention a few steps planners can take to make a difference in their own events. While I was very pleased with the results of the meeting (and I got some great feedback from both suppliers and planners), I did learn some lessons that I will take with me as I continue my efforts—and I think they are worth sharing. q Raising awareness. Raising awareness with your audience is tricky. Unless you have eco-oriented content in your meeting, it’s important not to get too heavy-handed with efforts to explain the green elements of your program.Make notes on printed materials where appropriate–on the agenda, menus, and even signage. But don’t delay or drag out any portion of the program just to explain how green you’ve made it. q Education. Give your presenter information about your efforts and let him or her say a few words at the close of session. q Teambuilding. For my SMU – Southeast program, we held a greenthemed scavenger hunt that got attendees engaged in the cause. q Food and beverage. Know your audience’s taste and source locally when possible, but don’t sacrifice your goal of pleasing attendees’ palates by limiting your menu to local-only ingredients. q Allow more time. An extra 15 minutes is helpful when you make the eco-conscious decision not to pre-pour water and other beverages. q Make recycling announcements. Without being obtrusive to the meeting, make announcements about where receptacles are located and do it every day. q Make recycling labeling clear. Make sure all recycling bins are labeled consistently with both verbiage and a graphic of what can be placed inside. q Provide a garbage can. Convenient access to a regular garbage can is important so people don’t mix garbage with recyclables. For years, corporate events have been drawn to Blue Man Group’s unique form of entertainment. Exploring themes of community, collaboration & creativity, corporate groups have left our theatres feeling connected and energized by their shared Blue Man Experience. Now, Blue Man Group will bring that experience to you. Call us to inquire how we can perform at your special event. PHOTO BY JAMES PORTO 48 MeetingNews August 11, 2008 www.meetingnews.com http://www.blueman.com http://www.blueman.com http://www.meetingnews.com

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Meeting News - August 11, 2008

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