4 Ways to Leverage Technology for More Sustainable Events

October 22, 2019

Toby Heelis

Toby Heelis is the CEO of events management company Eventopedia. He has spent the last 20 years operating and marketing event venues. As cofounder of a PR platform in 2001 and an events-based private club in London, Toby developed his passion for technology and digital marketing. He has refined his experiences as marketing director at the leading large event venue in London, The Brewery.

The year 2020 is almost here, and one of the most urgent issues across all industries, including events, is sustainability. The events sector is gradually learning to take an integrated approach to organizing more earth-friendly events, taking into consideration the full range of relevant aspects, from waste reduction and recycling to resource use, transportation, choosing a sustainable venue and suppliers, and more.

One way to boost event sustainability is by using available technology, as well as being open to embracing upcoming technological changes. The events industry is already employing various forms of technology, such as using digital promotion strategies, that have the side effect of also reducing paper use.

However, with technology advancing, the possibilities are constantly increasing. Here are four forms of technology that are changing the events landscape, while also promoting sustainability:

Mobile Apps

Apps are everywhere, and their potential is virtually endless. They’re also one of the easiest types of technology to adopt, helping organizations not only make their events more sustainable, but also improve efficiency.

Many apps can help with the event planning process (creating task lists, tracking progress, setting deadlines etc.) while also replacing paper use. Apps can also be used for carpooling for attendees, reducing the negative impact of transportation. 

Event apps are a great way to also promote sustainability in a variety of ways:

  • Reducing paper by having all the event information digitally in one place that’s also easy for guests to access
  • Live streaming functionalities can increase the number of remote attendees, reducing transportation and overall carbon footprint
  • Using e-tickets/passes reduces paper use
  • Digital food menus can replace paper menus
  • Using badge scanner functionalities can replace business cards, and they could also include e-brochures, digital freebies and other info, further reducing paper.

Green Resource Technology

Venues are increasingly using technology that helps them use resources more responsibly. These can be used for simple solutions such as sensor water-saving taps or lighting systems, as well as more complex mechanisms for measuring and reducing resource consumption.

Solar electricity panels are a great way to leverage technology for green energy, reducing your carbon footprint. Other tech includes solar benches and charging stations, and even energy-generating pedestrian walkways, which turn footsteps into energy.

Data Analytics

In today’s digital age, data is everywhere, and data analytics software can help organizations leverage it to the full potential. Event apps, sensors, and tools that measure resource use and carbon footprint are all great ways to generate useful data for more eco-friendly events.

Real-time data can help organizers take a proactive approach with their current event, while historical data can help improve sustainability in the long run.

VR

Virtual reality technology is constantly evolving, and we have yet to see the full potential it has for sustainable events. So far, it’s being leveraged to reduce transportation in various ways:

  • Boosting the popularity of hybrid meetings and enhancing virtual attendance capabilities
  • Enabling virtual product demonstrations with a simple VR headset, especially useful for large products/equipment that is complicated to transport to the event

 

Consumers are asking for eco-friendly practices and businesses are listening, so we are looking forward to seeing how further developments in technology will keep enhancing sustainability for the events sector.

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Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact