Sustainability

NZEA enables, educates and showcases best practice in environmental sustainability

Waste Management for events

At the New Zealand Events Association, we understand that the success of an event extends beyond the cheers and applause. It's about safeguarding our environment and leaving a lasting, positive impact on our communities. Effective waste management is the linchpin to achieving this.

From recyclables to compostables, our events generate significant waste streams. However, with thoughtful planning and eco-conscious choices, we can minimize the environmental footprint. By implementing waste reduction strategies, recycling initiatives, and sustainable practices, we not only reduce landfill waste but also inspire attendees and partners to adopt greener habits.

Join us in championing the cause of responsible waste management at events. Let's celebrate our shared commitment to preserving New Zealand's natural beauty and fostering a sustainable event industry for generations to come.

Good news stories - 99 percent of Ahi Kā event waste saved from landfill

NZEA accredited members

Social Sustainability

Sustainability has gained significant attention across various industries in recent years, and the event industry is no exception. While the focus has primarily revolved around environmental sustainability, there are three critical dimensions to sustainability: economic, social, and environmental.

Introduction to Social Sustainability

The world has experienced unprecedented challenges, with the COVID-19 pandemic forcing adaptation and resilience. This period has underscored the fragility of our society. Building a sustainable society has become paramount, regardless of the sector. The New Zealand Events Association (NZEA) emphasises that social sustainability involves processes, systems, structures, and relationships that actively support the capacity of current and future generations to create healthy and livable communities.

For event planners, social sustainability entails understanding how their events impact individuals and communities. It necessitates hosting events that foster progress and equity among all participants, from attendees and staff to sponsors, speakers, and local communities. In essence, social sustainability centers on enhancing relationships with all stakeholders touched by your event.

The Three Key Themes of Social Sustainability and Their Implications for Events

In the coming days, prioritizing social sustainability will be crucial in rebuilding global communities. By assessing the social impacts of their actions, event planners not only avoid negative outcomes and mitigate risks but also increase the likelihood of success. As events inherently focus on community-building, embracing social responsibility is an essential aspect of event planning. While specific strategies may vary depending on the type of event, these principles apply universally.

1. Equity

Equity stands as a foundational principle of social sustainability. It involves fairness, respect, and equal treatment of all individuals, regardless of their roles or identities. Event planners must prioritize equity for both internal stakeholders (such as staff and vendors) and external stakeholders (attendees and local communities). This entails fair labor practices, health and safety considerations, promoting work-life balance, equitable pay, and creating bias-free event experiences. Supporting cultural diversity and giving back to the local community are essential components of equitable event planning. The ultimate goal is to create a socially and ethically responsible environment that fosters transparency and trust.

2. Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are critical considerations in the event industry. Events bring together a diverse array of people, and it is imperative to ensure that everyone feels welcome. Lack of diversity can lead to social exclusion and segregation, making it vital to have a purposeful and intentional plan for hosting inclusive events. This encompasses accessible venues, diverse staffing, inclusive speaker panels, and a menu that accommodates various dietary needs. Hosting diverse and inclusive events promotes community welfare and embraces differences.

3. Social Cohesion

Social cohesion refers to the willingness of members of a society to cooperate with one another for mutual benefit. In the context of events, it extends to all individuals directly or indirectly influenced by the event, including clients, staff, vendors, and the local community. Social cohesion highlights the interconnectedness of everyone involved, emphasizing that a problem in one area can impact the entire event. Effective partnerships and collaboration among stakeholders are critical for enhancing social cohesion. A socially-sustainable event not only benefits the organizers and clients but also contributes to the broader society, creating a cycle of prosperity.

You can watch our webinar with Jess Vandy on the Regenerative Events Movement.

  • Sustainable suppliers

    Auckland Conventions have been working tirelessly with their partners to ensure we are headed to a more sustainable future too. Check out the work they have been doing.

    Eco Warehouse if your one-stop shop for sustainable and enviroment-friendly products.

    Biopak’s mission is to create sustainable packaging that puts the planet first. BioPak champion the transition to a circular economy with industry-leading products made from plants. Check them out.

    The Sustainable Food company is an Auckland catering company on a mission to deliver delicious, vibrant and nourishing plant-based food, while generating zero waste.

  • Sustainable network

    The Sustainable Business Network is a network that enables system change in the areas of climate, waste and nature. They have a number of events, resources and directories on championing sustainability.

    Go Green Expo host a number of events throughout the country showcasing the best of the best sustainable companies for the events industry and beyond. You can grab your tickets here.

    Beyond the Bin, New Zealand’s only dedicated event waste training organisation, offer a free video series for event organisers. The eight part video series covers infrastructure, budgeting, vendors and packaging, planning and mapping, volunteers, sponsors and publicity, site operations. To view, see: www.beyondthebin.org.nz