If you want to cut the emissions of your events but are not sure where to start, you’re in good company. Many organisers face the same challenges, from catering and attendee travel to temporary power and venue heating, it can feel impossible to know where and how to change.
Here’s the good news: it becomes far simpler when you measure what matters, manage what you control, and reduce where you can. This guide shows you how.
The events sector uses an estimated 380 million litres of diesel each year, costing around £230 million and generating around 1.2 billion kilograms of CO₂e a year. That’s similar to Malta’s total annual footprint.
At the same time, sustainability reporting rules are tightening. New UK reporting standards are expected to align with EU frameworks, and the Green Claims Code can issue fines of up to 10 % of turnover for misleading claims. Acting now to reduce emissions is therefore both a financial and compliance priority.
Key insights about event emissions:
Every sustainable event rests on three connected pillars:
Economic sustainability – Support local suppliers and communities while maintaining profitability.
Environmental sustainability – Reduce waste, optimise energy, and choose low‑carbon options.
Social sustainability – Make accessible, inclusive, safe, and welcoming for all participants.
Measuring your event’s carbon footprint is the foundation of improvement.
Why measure?
How to measure:
Understanding your data is only the starting point. What you do it is where the impact happens.
Be open and clear
Be open about your methods and data quality. Honest reporting builds credibility and supports continuous improvement.
Tailor your communication:
Event checklist:
Most event emissions come from five high‑impact areas. Focus here for maximum impact.
Impact Area | Action |
Energy | Use renewable power and efficient systems. |
Waste and Materials | Prioritise reusable or recyclable designs. |
Food and Catering | Offer majority plant‑based menus and manage portions. |
Freight and Logistics | Consolidate deliveries and use low‑emission transport. |
Travel | Incentivise public transport and virtual attendance. |
High-value initiatives that consistently deliver results
Developed at COP26, this global commitment brings the industry together to reach net‑zero emissions by 2050. Signatories pledge to:
This is a powerful way to share your commitment publicly and join the growing global movement, leading the way for sustainable events.
Sustainable events don’t happen overnight, but every action counts. Start by measuring your impact, set clear, achievable goals, and bring your team and suppliers along with you.
Every step you take strengthens your reputation, builds resilience and reduces emission in ways that genuinely move the industry forward.
Let’s make your next event your greenest yet.
Need help making your next event more sustainable? Contact us and start reducing emissions with confidence.
On the discovery call, we will ask you about your business, to understand your goals and advise how 5D Net Zero can help you on your net zero journey.
To start the process, just use our calendar to book a discovery call.
