Overview
The Sustainable Change Events Program aims to provide campus event organizers with guiding questions to make them aware of and assist them in creating sustainable events.
Getting Started
The Events certification form is divided into four main sections. It is advised to review each section below and gain a high-level overview of the questions asked prior to completing the Sustainable Change form.
- Cultural and religious holidays are accounted for when planning an event
- Sustainable transportation options to get to and from campus are highlighted in event invitations and promotion materials
- For example, the language in event invitation/promotional materials can be: "We encourage you to consider sustainable transportation options to help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet. This can be done by walking, biking, taking public transit, or carpooling to the event. Fore more information, see below:
- Getting to this event
- Public transit (Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville)
- Go transit (Clarkson and Erindale stations)
- UTM Shuttle but
- City e-bike and e-scooter program
- Carpool
- Parking
- For example, the language in event invitation/promotional materials can be: "We encourage you to consider sustainable transportation options to help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet. This can be done by walking, biking, taking public transit, or carpooling to the event. Fore more information, see below:
- If providing an in-person event with an option to attend virtually, try to incentivize people to come in person, so resources will not go to waste
- Incentivizing the in-person event without de-valuing the option to attend virtually can look like providing:
- Exclusive networking opportunities
- Interactive workshops or activities
- Giveaways or raffles to in-person participants
- Incentivizing the in-person event without de-valuing the option to attend virtually can look like providing:
- Don’t forget about the Blind Duck as a venue for events as they offer reusable dishware and cutlery
- Local and Fair-Trade food items are prioritized for events
- Nutritionally equivalent vegan and/or vegetarian options are provided
- China service is prioritized, if possible (i.e., providing reusable cutlery, plates, and other eating materials)
- Reusable dishes, drinkware, and cutlery are used at the event while single-use items will be avoided
- Student volunteers from the Sustainability Ambassador Program may be recruited to maximize composting/recycling
- Any swag or giveaway items are procured while considering social and environmental impacts
- Event materials (e.g., lanyards, table numbers, etc.,) are reused for future events
- Attendees are asked for feedback or areas of improvement for event sustainability
How to Participate
Complete the Sustainable Events Checklist Quiz at least two weeks before your event. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and email you with your event’s score (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum), if applicable.
Sustainable Event Award Winners: Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
