Sustainable Event Tips
This #EarthDay, we’re spotlighting the small changes that make a big difference - straight from the brilliant minds of our operations team: Holly, Harry, Vicky and Robyn. Whether you're planning a brand activation, conference, or team event, sustainability should be more than a tick-box. At Story, we believe every event is an opportunity to do better by the planet. Here are four smart, practical tips from our Ops team to help you create greener, more responsible experiences.
Think Digital First
Why print when you can go digital? Swapping out physical signage and branding for digital alternatives isn’t just a sleek design choice, it’s also a powerful move for the planet. Digital displays offer endless flexibility (hello, last-minute updates!) and help cut down on the single-use materials that often end up in the bin after an event.
Rethink Your Menu
Food choices can quietly make or break your event’s sustainability efforts. For example, buffets tend to generate more waste than plated meals, and offering a wide range of menu options can lead to kitchens over-preparing “just in case”. Small changes like simplifying your menu, opting for seasonal ingredients, or choosing locally sourced menu options can add up to a big environmental impact and minimise your carbon footprint.
Measure What Matters
At Story, we believe sustainability starts with data. That’s why we use a tool called TRACE to track the environmental footprint of our events. It helps us make smarter design and delivery choices from day one and gives us a clear picture of the event’s carbon output. Even better? It provides actionable recommendations for how we can offset emissions and improve year after year.
Give It a Second Life
The end of your event doesn’t have to mean the end of your materials. Partner with local schools, charities, or community groups to repurpose items like stand graphics or carpet. We donated the carpet from the London Summer Event Show to a Donkey Home, where it’s now being put to great use. With a bit of planning, your leftovers can live on and do some good!
Making Events Greener, One Step at a Time
Creating a sustainable event doesn’t have to be complicated. By embracing digital solutions, rethinking your catering, tracking your carbon impact, and giving materials a second life, you can reduce waste and make a meaningful difference. Sustainability is a journey, and every step counts – so let’s make each event a little greener than the last.