Green event guide launched by Zero Waste Scotland

The guide takes lessons from high profile events hosted by Scotland during 2014. Surplus energy demand at the Ryder Cup, for example, was met using a biofuel generator, which reduced the need for non-renewable fuel by 10%.

Likewise, the athletes village at the Glasgow Commonwealth games used 260,000 items of furniture from the London Olympic village.

Zero Waste Scotland’s new events guide has been developed to share these ideas, showcase best practice and act as a quick reference point for key topics including energy, water, waste management, venue, catering and transportation.

Companies that adopt sustainability are rewarded with reduced costs and increases in profit and turnover, says the report, not least because many sponsors now demand it. “The simple act of reviewing which resources are used, how they are used and disposed of gives an organisation the opportunity to make change to establish cost saving measures,” it reads.

Top tips

Advice within the guide includes using mains power where possible to reduce emissions and using displacement devices in toilets to reduce flushing water.

One way to help reduce waste is for events to sell branded re-usable bottles that become a memento of the event and can be re-used.

Zero Waste Scotland chief executive Iain Gulland said: “2014 really was a once in a lifetime year for Scotland as we saw sustainability raise its profile in the planning and delivery of several high profile events. The legacy of these events has the potential to really benefit Scotland, and this guide has been developed to ensure that resource efficiency stays on the agenda.

“By taking steps to improve sustainability, for example putting in place plans to divert waste from landfill or re-using materials where possible post-event, organising committees can boost their reputation and gain a competitive advantage, while helping to create a truly sustainable Scottish events industry that competes on the world stage.”

— READ THE GREEN EVENTS GUIDE HERE —

Five recent events that championed sustainability

Click each of the links below for a full breakdown of their green credentials…

– Glastonbury

– Wimbledon

– Brazil World Cup

– 2015 Superbowl

– London Fashion Week

Brad Allen