Today’s companies aren’t just planning events; they’re making statements. For many organizations, sustainability has become a core value that must show up in every touchpoint, including corporate gatherings. Hosting an eco-friendly corporate event isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for your brand, your team, and your long-term bottom line.
At 828 Venue Management Company, with venues across the country and a full-service planning arm through 828 Planning, we help corporate teams create meaningful, memorable, and environmentally conscious events every single year. If you’re looking to reduce your footprint and elevate the guest experience, here’s your step-by-step guide to hosting a sustainable corporate event.
1. Choose a Venue With Built-In Sustainability Advantages
Your venue sets the tone — and the carbon footprint — for your entire event. Choosing the right space is the foundation of any sustainable corporate event.
When comparing spaces, look for:
Energy-Efficient Buildings
Spaces that use LED lighting, efficient HVAC systems, and modern insulation reduce overall energy consumption. Our 828 venues have large windows, allowing natural light to cut down on daytime energy usage.
Central, Walkable Locations
Reduce transportation emissions by choosing a venue in the heart of your city, near public transit if available, and hotels.
Flexible, Minimalist Spaces
Blank-canvas venues (like every 828 property) require fewer materials to “transform” the space, reducing waste from excessive décor.
2. Implement a Thoughtful Waste-Reduction Strategy
Reducing waste doesn’t happen by accident; build it into your event plan. These strategies help you create a zero-waste corporate event without sacrificing design or experience.
Ditch Single-Use Items
Opt for reusable glassware, dishware, signage, and linens. Many caterers and rental partners already offer sustainable options.
Provide Clearly Labeled Waste Stations
Separate recycling, compost, and landfill bins so guests know exactly where items should go.
Partner With Eco-Friendly Vendors
Work with companies that donate leftover food, compost organic waste, or repurpose florals. (Your 828 Planning team can recommend vendors in every market.)
3. Choose Sustainable Catering Options
Food and beverage selections are some of the biggest drivers of waste at corporate events.
Here’s how to make yours greener:
Offer a plant-forward menu. Even swapping one or two dishes can significantly reduce emissions.
Use seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. This reduces transportation impacts and supports community farmers.
Serve in bulk when possible. Think beverage dispensers instead of individual bottles.
Plan portions strategically. Your catering partner can help avoid over-ordering without compromising the experience.
4. Reduce the Impact of Your Event Design
Sustainable doesn’t mean bare; it means intentional, especially when it comes to green event planning and design choices.
Rent Instead of Buy
Linens, décor, and lounge pieces can all be rented and reused.
Incorporate Digital Design Elements
LED walls, digital signage, and QR codes minimize printing needs.
Use Live, Potted, or Dried Florals
They last longer, require fewer resources, and can often be repurposed or given away post-event.
5. Go Digital With Your Communication & Ticketing
Every paper item such as programs, place cards, tickets, and maps adds up.
Consider replacing traditional print materials with:
QR-code schedules
Digital RSVPs
Mobile event apps
On-screen announcements
These tools also make it easier to update information in real time.
6. Prioritize Vendor Partnerships That Share Your Values
Your event is only as sustainable as the team behind it.
Work with vendors who:
Use eco-friendly products + practices
Offer recycling/composting services
Use energy-efficient equipment
Are transparent about their sustainability commitments
At 828 Planning, we work with trusted vendors in every city who align with both your goals and ours.
7. Build Sustainability Into Your Guest Experience
Engagement creates long-term impact.
You can encourage sustainable guest behavior by:
Offering branded reusable water bottles or tote bags
Incorporating carbon-offset ticketing
Providing accessible public transit info
Creating zero-waste swag stations
Donating leftover materials on behalf of attendees
Guests feel more connected to an event when they know their presence is part of a broader mission.
8. Measure Your Impact, and Share It
A sustainable event doesn’t end when the lights turn off.
Record metrics such as:
Waste diverted from landfills
Miles of travel saved via transit
Amount of locally sourced food used
Number of items repurposed or donated
These insights are valuable for shareholders, employees, and future event planning, plus they showcase your company’s commitment to sustainability.
Why Partner With 828 for Your Sustainable Corporate Event
With venues across the U.S. and a national planning team, 828 Venue Management Company and 828 Planning brings unmatched expertise to eco-friendly corporate event planning across the U.S. We understand the logistics, the vendors, and the systems that make sustainability seamless, not stressful.
Our venues offer:
Blank-canvas spaces requiring fewer production materials
Urban locations that reduce travel emissions
Energy-efficient design elements
A planning team that prioritizes sustainability from day one
Whether you’re hosting a company celebration, leadership summit, product launch, or nonprofit gala, we help you execute a beautiful, memorable, low-impact event.
Plan Your Sustainable Corporate Event With 828
If your company is ready to reduce waste, boost purpose, and create a more intentional event experience, our team would love to help.
Reach out to 828 Venue Management Company to tour a space near you, or connect with 828 Planning to start building a greener event strategy today.
