Giving Compass' Take:

• Trang Chu Minh describes the lessons she learned in sustainability after planning several sustainable events for her company. 

• How can donors contribute to sustainable event planning? Why don't more companies prioritize sustainability?

• Read about the next phase of business sustainability topics.

I always thought the term “sustainable events” was a walking oxymoron for events are one of the most energy-intensive, high-waste undertakings. I am, however, also a firm believer that every “little green step” counts in the path towards more sustainable business practices.   I was therefore extremely grateful to my company, Refinitiv and my managers…

I was therefore extremely grateful to my company, Refinitiv and my managers for the tremendous opportunity to lead our global sustainable events initiative and policy – initially as a passion project in addition to my day job, and now as an integral part of my new role as Head of Summits and Sustainable Events (no pressure!).

I am by no means a sustainability expert, but wanted to reflect on some of the initial lessons learnt  in case others might find them valuable, to offer a source of comfort to those encountering similar challenges in this space (we are all in the same boat!), and to prompt more people to embrace sustainable practices in their own line of work.

  1. It takes bold decisions to change mindsets 
  2. Being more sustainable won’t necessarily cost you more money  
  3. Do your due diligence on your eco-friendly vendors 
  4. Venues can make or break the success of your sustainability efforts 
  5. Reduce, reuse and recycle (before you consider offsetting) 
  6. Always strive to improve and measure your progress along the way 
  7. Savor your journey (and not just the KPIs) 

Read the full article about lessons about sustainability by Trang Chu Minh at Causeartist.