What is a Green Event?

A green event incorporates environmental considerations to minimize the negative impact on the planet. This includes the choice of an eco-conscious location, local and seasonal food, less plastic and focus on reusable, recyclable or biodegradable materials to reduce waste.

​

Do Green Events look "hippiesque"?

Not at all! Green Events are the trend of the hour. Eco-friendly producers are often young start-ups who know how to appeal to Generation Instagram and TikTok. That's why most sustainable products look rather stylish. Green Events are no exception. If you want to avoid a floral or "handmade" look, we can certainly do that!

 

When can I call my event "sustainable"?

When you incorporate ecological and social aspects into your planning. There are no minimum standards in Switzerland (yet) to call your event sustainable. That said, thou shalt not exaggerate, otherwise, you might get accused of greenwashing.

​

Can I get certified?

Yes, you can! There are a couple of global organizations who can certify your green event:

ISO 20121 offers guidance and best practice to help you manage your event and control its social, economic and environmental impact.

BS8901provides a set of guidelines to help with the planning and management of sustainable events.

APEX/ASTM Green Meeting Standards are a collection of industry standards that specify precisely what it means to plan a green event.

They all offer courses and certifications.

​

Is Switzerland even ready for Green Events?

Oh, absolutely! The sustainable market in Switzerland is alive and kicking. We are not only one of the cleanest countries in the world, we also have tons of companies that produce sustainable, reusable or biodegradable products under fair conditions. There are a lot of catering companies that only cook with local food that is in season and our hotels have a high green standard, anyway. If you want to save energy, the EKZ will help you. And then there's The Green Event Planner, who's more than happy to help you host a sustainable event.

​

Do you have more questions? Feel free to contact us!

​