Green Events Standard

Best Practices and Guidelines

• Promotional Materials

  Best Practices

  • Promote events primarily through digital channels (email, social media, and web platforms, including university calendars)
  • Use durable banners designed for reuse across multiple events

  Encouraged

  • Print or mount large-scale posters on cardboard instead of foam core
  • Share event information and agendas through apps or web platforms rather than printed materials.
• Food and Catering

  Reducing Food Waste

  • Plan orders carefully using accurate headcounts. 
    • Use historical attendance data where available, and note that RSVP or paid events tend to have higher turnout, while free events without RSVP often have lower attendance. 
    • As a general rule, order for a maximum of 80 percent of anticipated attendees to reduce waste and costs.
  • Donate leftover food to students or local food pantries.
  • Provide smaller plates to help reduce over-serving.

  Sustainable Catering

  • Choose plant-forward menus and work with vendors that source locally and organically where possible.
  • Follow principles such as the Menus of Change for healthier, more sustainable food options
• Waste Management

  Best Practices

  • Group landfill, recycling, and compost bins together with clear signage.
  • Use compost bins at events where available.
  • Distribute reusable name badges and collect them after the event for future use.
• Decorations

  Best Practices

  • Use or rent reusable decorations.
  • Do not use balloons (latex, mylar, helium-filled, or non-helium).
  • Avoid disposable tablecloths (paper, plastic, or vinyl).
  • Use potted plants or cut flowers that are organically and/or domestically grown.

  Tips

  • Choose durable decorations that are not theme-specific and can be reused year to year.
  • Instead of balloons, create ambiance using reusable options such as lighting (e.g., wash lights) and music.
• Giveaway Items

  Best Practices

  • Choose items with practical use or function.
  • Prioritize long-lasting items (usable for 3+ years).
  • Select products made from sustainable materials such as cloth, bamboo, stainless steel, glass, or cork.

  Encouraged

  • Purchase items from certified B Corporations.
  • Apparel made with organic and/or recycled-content materials.