Sustainable Events Guide

• Go paperless. 
  • Advertise your event online (distribute fliers by email and promote the event using social media).
  • Make agendas and other materials available electronically before and after the event.

• Reuse. 
  • Use reusable name badges.
  • Create and laminate signs to use again for future events.
  • Reuse tablecloths and decorations.
  • Use reusable bowls and trays and possibly even plates.

• Choose greener catering options.
  • Order food from businesses nearby to minimize resources needed to transport.
  • Provide buffet-style food choices rather than individually packaged items or order in bulk.
  • Serve finger food snacks to limit the need for plates and utensils.
  • Choose locally grown and/or seasonal produce, Fair Trade foods and beverages, vegetarian/vegan options.

• Make recycling easy. 
  • Be sure that recycling bins are clearly visible next to garbage cans and are clearly labeled.
  • Assign the role of recycling coordinator. A person should be responsible for coordinating recycling and ensuring that recycling is done correctly.

• Reduce waste.
• Limit the usage of single-use utensils and encourage attendees to bring their own plates, utensils, bottles, mugs, or cups.
• Avoid single-use cups and glasses by providing glasses for wine or beer in cans or glass bottles.
• Provide beverage dispensers for water or other soft drinks and avoid buying small plastic bottles.
• Avoid over-ordering by requiring event registration.

• Recycle and manage waste sustainably.
  • Recycle what is not needed.
  • Take home leftovers or share them with neighbors or other staff. For bigger events, consider donating the leftover food to an organization.

• Communicate. Tell your attendees about WCM’s sustainable efforts and explain what the institution wants to accomplish by going green.

For larger events:

• Meet virtually if possible. 
• Promote the use of public transportation and car-pooling or hire shuttles to transport participants.

Contact WCM-Sustainability@med.cornell.edu for help with your event.