Planning a conference that aligns with your sustainability goals starts with one major decision: the venue.
Whether you’re organizing a leadership summit or an association conference, your venue sets the stage—not just for the attendee experience, but for your event’s environmental footprint. With Earth Day here, there’s no better time to ensure your event spaces reflect your values.
We believe sustainability and unforgettable experiences go hand in hand. Here’s our guide to choosing a sustainable event venue that’s as smart as it is eco-conscious.
1. Start With a Green Venue Checklist
Before reaching out to venues, use a green venue checklist to help guide your search. Look for spaces that offer:
• LEED certification or other recognized sustainability credentials
• Access to public transportation or shuttle services
• On-site recycling and composting programs
• Energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems
• Water-saving fixtures and initiatives
• Support for digital signage and paperless events
• Local, seasonal catering options
Bonus: Some venues will proudly provide their sustainability report or green event practices upon request. This transparency not only helps with vetting but also provides powerful messaging for your event marketing.
2. Ask the Right Questions
Once you’ve narrowed down a few options, dig deeper by asking:
• How does your team support eco-friendly events?
• Can you accommodate a zero-waste or low-waste F&B strategy?
• What sustainability practices are built into your operations?
• Do you partner with any local green initiatives or vendors?
These questions do more than check boxes—they start a conversation and help you align with venues that genuinely prioritize sustainability.
3. Look Local (and Think Global)
Choosing a conference center near major transit hubs can drastically reduce your event’s carbon footprint. Bonus points for venues that work with local farms, artists, and businesses—it’s not only better for the environment, but it also enriches the attendee experience with regional flavor and authenticity.
In fact, the EPA reports that transportation contributes over 29% of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S.—a compelling reason to consider proximity and public transit options when planning events.
4. Consider Technology and Flexibility
Digital signage, energy-efficient AV, and strong hybrid capabilities are no longer nice-to-haves. They’re essential tools for hosting more eco-friendly events. A venue that’s already built for hybrid or virtual extensions helps you scale sustainably—without sacrificing production value.
5. Evaluate the Total Impact
A truly sustainable venue goes beyond the building. Consider:
• Staff training and commitment to green initiatives
• How the venue manages waste before, during, and after the event
• What post-event sustainability metrics they can provide
We work with venues that not only talk the talk but walk the walk—helping our clients create earth-conscious events that make a lasting impression in the right way.
Celebrate Earth Day Year-Round
Choosing a sustainable venue isn’t a one-time decision tied to Earth Day. It’s a long-term investment in better events, better communities, and a better planet. Whether you’re just starting your sustainability journey or looking to deepen your impact, the right venue makes all the difference.
And the effort pays off—according to Sustainable Brands, 85% of event attendees say sustainability is a priority when choosing which conferences to attend.
Let’s plan with purpose.
Looking for help sourcing an eco-friendly venue?
Our expert event planners are here to help you design sustainable, experiential conferences from the ground up. Contact us today to get started.
