Celebrating Earth Month with Purposeful, Eco-Friendly Events

April is in full swing, and with Earth Month nearly behind us, it’s a great time to reflect on how we can continue carrying the spirit of sustainability into the months ahead—especially when it comes to planning events. Whether you’re wrapping up spring programming or gearing up for summer gatherings, making your events more eco-friendly is a meaningful way to honor our planet year-round.

At Meetings Northwest, we believe that mindful event planning makes a difference—not just for attendees, but for the environment too. If you’re looking for ways to lighten your event’s environmental footprint, here are a few ideas to keep sustainability front and center:

🌱 Choose Eco-Conscious Venues

Opt for venues that prioritize sustainability—think LEED-certified buildings, composting and recycling programs, energy-efficient lighting, or walkable locations that reduce the need for transportation.

♻️ Rethink Event Materials

Go paperless when possible. Use digital signage, QR codes for programs, and online registration tools to cut back on printed materials. If printed items are a must, use recycled paper and avoid single-use plastics.

🍽 Prioritize Local and Seasonal Catering

Work with caterers who use local, organic, or seasonal ingredients. Minimizing food waste and opting for compostable dishware or reusable service ware can go a long way toward greener gatherings.

🚰 Provide Water Refill Stations

Skip the bottled water and offer branded refillable bottles or hydration stations. It’s an easy switch that cuts down on waste and encourages healthy habits.

🌸 Think Long-Term

Sustainable planning doesn’t stop with Earth Month. Look for ways to make green practices part of your ongoing strategy—whether it’s adding sustainability goals to your RFPs or building partnerships with vendors who share your values.

Let’s Keep the Momentum Going
Earth Month may be wrapping up, but the effort to care for our planet continues. By incorporating even a few of these sustainable practices into your events, you’re helping build a future where gathering and going green go hand in hand.

Want help bringing sustainable ideas into your next event? Contact us to start planning!