Why it matters
Sustainability is a big part of how the University of Sydney operates, from the way we teach and research to how we run events on campus. Our Sustainability Strategy 2020, guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, lays out both environmental and socially sustainable target to us to meet. Students are critical in helping to reach these targets and you can play an important role in making it happen.
Whether it’s a club launch, fundraiser, or social catch-up, events are a great way to bring people together and a perfect chance to show sustainability in action. No matter how big or small your event is, there are simple things you can do to reduce its impact.
What’s a sustainable event?
A sustainable event is one that reduces waste, lowers emissions, and supports ethical and inclusive choices. It's all about making your event more environmentally friendly and socially responsibly, considering the impact you event will leave on people and planet.
Why make your event sustainable?
- Good for the planet: Less waste and lower emissions.
- Good for the community: Inclusive, ethical, and locally minded.
- Good for your budget: Reusing and reducing can save money.
- Good vibes: Sets a great example and inspires others.
Practical steps towards a sustainable event
Bring it up early and include it in every step, from venue and catering choices to giveaways and clean-up.
Pick a few realistic goals that make sense for your event. Make sure all people who are involved in the event know the goals and how important they are to a successful event. Some ideas:
Ditch single-use plastics
Go paperless
Offer only vegetarian or vegan food which has a much lower carbon footprint that meat heavy menus
Set up recycling opportunities at the event
Borrow instead of buying new items
Make it easy for people to get there without a car
Did you meet your goals? What worked well? What could improve? Tracking your impact helps you assess your sustainability success and improve for next time.
Plan for what happens to materials and decorations when the event ends. Can they be reused, repurposed or donated? Apply a circular economy approach to your event materials to keep things out of landfill for longer.
Tell your attendees about the steps you're taking and how they can help. This will raise awareness of your event’s environmental impact and encourage others to take notice and action. A few examples:
“We’re reducing food waste - bring a container to take home any leftover food.”
“All food is vegetarian or vegan to lower our greenhouse gas emissions.”
“We’ve partnered with suppliers who share our sustainability values.”
Encourage attendees to take sustainable transport to your event like public transport, walking, or cycling. Make it easy for them, share:
- Closest train and bus stops
- Bike parking or end-of-trip facilities
Food waste is a major issue with events, but it’s easy to reduce:
Under-cater to account for no-shows
Avoid plastic packaging, and minimise packaging all together.
Use reusable crockery and cups when possible. If your event is outdoors and crockery and glassware is not suitable, there are resuable and light weight plates, bowls and cutlery available to hire from various organisations (like https://www.b-alternative.com and https://bettercup.club/). The Sustainability Team have a some reusable catering supplies for small events you are welcome to borrow – just email us.
Rescue your food leftover before composting. Just make sure the food is safe. For instance, ensuring that the food hasn't been left out for more than 1-2 hours, depending on the type of food. Following the HACCP system guidelines is recommended.
Compost any food you can’t rescue right here on campus. Use a green organic waste bin to put your food scraps in. The most accessible green bins are along Eastern Avenue. Check out our A-Z waste directory to find the right bin.
Go paperless:
Use QR codes for programs or event info
Reuse signs across events
Reskin banners
Choose items that last, can be reused, or gifted:
Dried flowers
Props you can repurpose
Table decor that doubles as a takeaway gift
Ask yourself - do you need them? If yes, try these ideas:
Useful, practical items (reusable cups, tote bags)
Digital gifts or experiences instead of stuff
Prizes instead of giveaways for everyone
Eco-friendly options like mini herb plants or repair kits
Use recycled or compostable materials
Collect and reuse them at future events
Before you pack down, check:
What can you reuse next time?
What can be donated?
What needs to be recycled?
Take stock, what worked, what didn’t? What can be done even more sustainability next time?
Need help or want to brainstorm sustainable event ideas? Reach out to the Sustainability Strategy Team at university.sustainability@sydney.edu.au
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