July 16, 2025
How to reduce waste and emissions at corporate events and festivals
Summer is synonymous with events, festivals, fairs, and concerts. But it also means tons of waste, massive resource consumption, and a large environmental footprint. According to data from the Spanish Events Association, an average festival can produce up to 2.5 kg of waste per attendee per day, most of it single-use plastics. That’s why more and more organizers are seeking circular alternatives to minimize their environmental impact and contribute to a more responsible experience.
In this article, we’ll show you how to move toward sustainable events, highlight initiatives that are already working, and explain how Wegsco can help you implement them.
Initiatives to organize more sustainable events
1. Reusable or returnable cups
Many cities and festivals have already implemented reusable cup systems with a deposit. Attendees pay €1 or €2 for their cup and get it back when they return it.
Real example: Cruïlla Barcelona and Brisa Festival Málaga use this system successfully.
2. Visible waste separation and recycling stations
Don’t hide the bins. Placing well-marked recycling islands with staff to assist significantly reduces improperly sorted waste.
3. Drinking water stations
Cutting down on plastic bottles is easier when fountains are installed and attendees are encouraged to bring reusable bottles.
4. Audience-generated energy
During their “Music of the Spheres” tour, Coldplay installed bikes and kinetic floors where fans generated electricity by pedaling or jumping, powering part of the show. A brilliant way to raise awareness, engage the audience, and produce renewable energy.
See example here
5. Local, plastic-free catering
Choosing local suppliers and eliminating disposable packaging (or replacing it with compostable options like Solubag, our partner that offers water-soluble bags with no toxic residues) cuts waste and emissions from transport.
How your company or institution can contribute
Organizing a more sustainable event is not only an environmental gesture—it also enhances your brand image and connects with an increasingly conscious audience.
You can start by:
- Implementing returnable cups or tableware
- Designing logistics for on-site waste separation and recycling
- Using renewable energy or temporary self-consumption systems like solar generators
- Prioritizing reusable materials for décor and booths
- Encouraging shared transport or offsetting your carbon footprint
- Offering useful, sustainable merchandise
At Wegsco, we help you design circular events
Whether it’s a festival, convention, or trade fair, at Wegsco we work with companies and organizations to implement circular economy solutions, sustainable packaging, and responsible consumption strategies tailored to your needs.
Find out how we can help you reduce waste and leave a positive footprint at your events.
