Event industry experts discuss the growing focus of sustainable event management at the 3rd edition of BW Applause Experiential Marketing Summit

21st century is the age of digitalisation and with the rapid advancement of technology, we seldom give much attention to the depleting environment through human deployment. But, the events industry takes multiple initiatives in taking the potential of sustainability ahead. 

Karan Bharadwaj, Founder, Kryp Media asked about the importance of sustainability in the events industry. To which, Gaurav Chawla, IKA founder explicitly remarked, “Making the best use of resources is our responsibility!” On the other end, Surinder Singh, General Manager, Vivanta, Dwarka enlightened everybody with the initiative Taj Hotels are taking in sustaining the environment. He informed Taj Hotels use biodegradable waste machines, and no waste moves out of the hotel premises. Further adding, he highlights a well thought move on how the waste is transformed into manures. 

While sustainability is not the cause of concern only in the events industry, but the travel and tourism market as well. Amit Jain, the founder of Rising Star Travels says, “improving transportation and logistics facility can help in better event sustainability”. While the travel industry is potentially related to the events domain, Gaurav Chawla, Founder, IKA believes that, “one should look whether the infrastructure [in which the event is planned] is supporting the sustainability or not” and if it is taken as a conscious effort, then the economy will rise eventually. Therefore, the pre-planning phase should be strong. 

Talking about event sustainability and missing out on paper waste. Surinder Singh, General Manager, Vivanta, affirms, “Events should be made paperless”. 

As it is correctly opined, “With great power comes greater responsibility!”, Vipul Pandi, MD, Workaholics Event Solutions couldn’t agree more. He expressed that “India is not a developed economy, and people believe in saving cost”, which comes as a biggest challenge in making events sustainable. Supporting Vipul Pandi in his stance, Vinay Oberoi, AVP Sales, Nesco opines, “Environment is not inherited from our ancestors, but borrowed from our children!” He highlighted how Nesco is doing its bit by using biodegradable material. 

In conclusion, Karan Bharadwaj said, “if all the correct protocols are followed, we will be able to develop a sustainable environment in the next 5-7 years”.