Sustainability Reference Checklist

Venue Questions:

• Do you have a green initiative or formal sustainability program?
• Are you certified by any green or sustainability organizations?
• What are your current green policies and waste management practices?
• Can you provide water pitchers or refill stations instead of bottled water?
• Do you offer alternatives to single-use plastics?
• What compostable or reusable plates, flatware, and cups are available?
• Can you provide composting bins and recycling stations onsite?
• Do you have an energy and water usage report?
• Can HVAC usage be reduced on setup and teardown days?
• How is food waste handled? Is donation available?
• What is your process for handling used cooking oil?
• Can you provide food waste tracking in daily reports?
• Do you use a sustainable linen cleaning company?
• What inventory furniture is linen-free or eco-friendly?

Materials & Merchandise:

• Use recyclable badge stock and holders
• Offer eco-friendly or recyclable lanyards
• Replace printed programs with mobile apps
• Use QR codes for agendas or maps
• Avoid handouts and bag inserts where possible
• Confirm all merchandise is sustainable or locally sourced

Food & Beverage:

• Design menus with reduced meat, especially red meat
• Prioritize plant-based and locally sourced options
• Eliminate sterno and oil-based candles
• Use compostable or reusable food service items
• Require caterers to track and report food waste in BEOs
• Avoid linen-draped tables or use sustainably cleaned linens

Hotel Sustainability Questions:

• Do you have a sustainability initiative in place?
• Are there water and energy usage reports available?
• Do you offer opt-out housekeeping programs?
• What is your recycling and composting process?

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Final Thought: Planning a sustainable event isn’t just a trend—it’s a responsibility. Use this resource to make meaningful changes that benefit both your attendees and the planet. Together, we can create impactful events with a smaller footprint.

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