There are numerous things to think about when planning for an event: food, advertising, venue, activities, etc, but one thing that is often forgotten is environmental impact. How many times have you been handed a flier at Milton Gates, or seen garbage cans overflowing with plastic cups during Frosh? Events at McGill are extremely wasteful; enough that in 2008, VP Clubs & Services identified them as her portfolio’s “most wasteful activity” (SSMU Sustainability Assessment 2008). Despite the track record, things are changing. In 2009, SSMU will be passing new event by-laws to regulate the sustainability of events. Club events will soon be more strictly regulated, in terms of sustainability. Since events can be difficult to plan, and few students are environmental experts, this guide is here to help.
There are other great reasons to plan a green event besides SSMU regulations.
- A green event will be good for your club’s publicity and public image.
- Green events are often economical! Think about all the money your club can save if it doesn’t have to print advertisements and buy plastic dishware.
- Holding a green event serves as an example to other clubs and their potential events.
- Green events are better for the environment!!!
