More and more businesses are choosing to make sustainability a central focus of their events. Whether it’s a conference, networking session, or corporate celebration, sustainability is now a must. At Oceans Haarlem, we believe that eco-friendliness and an unforgettable experience go hand in hand. In this blog, we share practical tips and inspiration to make your event more sustainable without compromising on quality or atmosphere.
Why Choose a Sustainable Event?
Sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a responsibility. By making conscious choices, you can significantly reduce the ecological impact of your event. It also demonstrates your company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (ESG) and compliance with new regulations like CSRD.
At Oceans Haarlem, we support sustainable events with facilities and partners that contribute to a greener future. From energy-efficient spaces to promoting local and organic catering, we make sustainability accessible.
Step 1: Choose a Sustainable Venue
The venue is a key starting point in making your event more sustainable. Oceans Haarlem is designed with sustainability in mind. Our spaces use energy-efficient systems, and we collaborate with suppliers who share our vision. Additionally, our location is centrally situated in Haarlem and easily accessible by public transport, making it convenient for your guests to travel eco-friendly.
Tip: Encourage your guests to travel by train, bus, or bike. This not only lowers CO₂ emissions but also ensures a relaxed arrival.
Step 2: Minimize Paper Usage
Many events still rely on paper invitations, flyers, and programs. However, these can be made much more sustainable by going digital:
Send invitations via email.
Use a digital event app or QR codes for programs and information.
Opt for screens instead of printed materials for announcements or speaker profiles.
At Oceans Haarlem, we provide modern technology so you can easily go paperless. It’s not only eco-friendly but also more efficient.
Step 3: Opt for Sustainable Catering
Food and drinks are often a highlight of any event, but they can also have a significant environmental impact. Choose catering that prioritizes sustainability:
Work with caterers who use local and seasonal ingredients.
Include vegetarian and vegan options, which drastically reduce CO₂ emissions.
Use biodegradable tableware or reusable alternatives.
At Oceans Haarlem, we partner with local caterers who offer delicious and sustainable dishes. Whether you prefer an extensive buffet or an intimate dinner, we ensure that sustainability and flavor go hand in hand.
Step 4: Use Sustainable Decorations
Decorations add atmosphere to any event but can also create a lot of waste. Make conscious choices:
Use reusable decorations or rent items instead of single-use materials.
Incorporate natural elements like flowers, plants, or wood.
Avoid plastic and choose sustainable alternatives like recycled fabrics or LED lighting.
Our spaces at Oceans Haarlem are flexible to style, allowing you to create a sustainable and stylish look effortlessly. Consider decorations that can be reused for future events.