When it comes to meeting sustainability goals in events, it can feel like an uphill struggle. Budgets can be tight and time short. We’re all about organisations that can provide invaluable support and resources for sustainable event planning and actually make operations easier. Partnering with them can help ensure that your event leaves a positive impact on the environment and aligns with sustainable goals. Here are a few of our favourites:
1. United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals
Not a supplier as such, but a good one to start with as theses principles underpin the decisions we make. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries – developed and developing – in a global partnership. They recognise that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests. Here at Four Corners we put it into practice by using the eight that are most relevant (shown in image) to guide our policies and provide a framework for focus. Read more here
2. Floral Angels
Floral Angels was created in 2013 to recycle and reuse flowers from events, weddings and retailers. they deliver bouquets and arrangements to those in the community who would not normally receive flowers. In doing this they are also supporting the floral industry in reducing waste. Floral Angels is run entirely by volunteers and are based at New Covent Garden Flower Market in London. Most recently we’ve worked with them for a large London-based conference for over 3000 people and it was great to know that our floral arrangements would have an extended life. Read more here
3. Event Cycle
These guys do incredible work determining repurposing and redistribution routes for surplus event materials with charities, community groups, schools and social enterprises. Working on a case-by-case basis they provide a quote and solution depending on what needs repurposing, arranging collection directly from the venue if needed. Read more here
4. Food Rescue Organisations
Whilst we continually work to minimise the excesses, food waste can be a significant issue at events, and organisations like FareShare redistribute surplus food to those in need. By collaborating with food rescue groups, you can minimize waste, reduce disposal costs, and support local communities in need. Read more here
5. Myclimate
We’ve found Myclimate to be a comprehensive, easy to use co2 emissions calculator which covers all aspects of events. Once you have your emissions figure, they then give the opportunity to fund specific initiatives targeting local communities. Read more here
By aligning with these organisations, we can reduce waste, cut emissions, and foster community support, making sustainability a defining feature of each event.
