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Integrating environmental criteria into the event supply chain is critical to making a positive impact. Event organisers – whether corporate, agency, conference-based or otherwise – face growing expectations to reduce the environmental impact of their activities. One crucial area to achieve this is the selection of suppliers committed to sustainable practices. In this blog post, we present practical, action-oriented tips for choosing partners who share your sustainable vision, backed by certifications, standards, and concrete tools.
The Importance of Choosing Suppliers Committed to Sustainability at Events
Choosing sustainable suppliers is not just a matter of image, but a real step towards reducing an event’s environmental impact. From catering to audiovisual production, every choice can make the difference between an event that genuinely minimises its carbon footprint and one that merely appears “green”. Suppliers should be seen as strategic allies in the sustainability mission, integrating themselves into the event planning process with aligned values. A sustainable supplier not only offers a service, but does so by incorporating ethical practices, efficient resource use, and environmental respect at every stage. This enhances your event’s reputation, satisfies increasingly conscious attendees, and contributes to a more responsible future for the industry.
Practical Criteria for Selecting Sustainable Suppliers
When evaluating a supplier’s commitment to sustainability at events, consider these key criteria that you can immediately apply in your procurement processes:
Environmental certifications and seals
Check if the supplier holds recognised certifications that verify its sustainability efforts. ISO 20121 is a good example: this is the international standard specifically created for the sustainability management of events. Having ISO 20121 (or the equivalent UNE ISO 20121 in Europe) demonstrates that the company integrates sustainability into its event management. Other relevant certifications include ISO 14001 (corporate environmental management) and EMAS (European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme), aimed at continuous improvement of environmental performance.
Also look for broader sustainability accreditations such as B Corp, which certifies companies for meeting high social and environmental impact standards. A supplier with credentials like ISO 20121, ISO 14001 or B Corp clearly demonstrates a structured and credible commitment to sustainability. There are also specific recognitions in the events sector, such as Eventsost certifications, or LEED (for efficient venues and venues). These certificates provide assurance and transparency, giving organisers confidence in the supplier’s independently verified practices.
Use of sustainable materials and resources
Examine what materials and products the supplier uses in their service. Do they use recycled, reusable or eco-certified materials? For example, a print provider should use FSC-certified paper (from sustainably managed forests) and eco-friendly inks, or offer digital alternatives to reduce paper usage. For event setup and decoration, avoid single-use items – sustainable suppliers will favour durable and reusable materials over disposable plastics.
In the case of merchandise or corporate gifts, prioritise eco-friendly and ethically produced items. These choices reduce waste and often prove more efficient in the long term. Ask specifically about materials: a truly committed supplier will be able to explain the origin and environmental credentials of their products.
Waste and emissions management strategies
Ensure that your suppliers have clear practices to minimise waste and reduce their carbon footprint. For example, sustainable caterers should plan to avoid food waste, donate surplus food when possible, and use compostable or reusable tableware and packaging instead of single-use plastics.
In technical production, this could involve reusing stage sets, setting up post-event recycling systems, or using energy-efficient LED lighting. If hazardous waste is involved (e.g. batteries, electronics), ask how it is managed. On emissions, it is increasingly important for suppliers to measure and control their carbon footprint. Some leading providers already calculate the emissions from their activities (transport, energy use, etc.) and offset them through certified schemes, aiming for carbon neutrality.
There is even a global initiative in the MICE sector called Net Zero Carbon Events, which aims to achieve carbon neutral events by 2050. Selecting suppliers aligned with this vision (reducing emissions year on year, using renewable energy, electric fleets, etc.) will help you meet stricter environmental standards. Specialised tools such as footprinting platforms for events – like TRACE from the UK-based organisation Island which allows you to measure an event’s emissions and waste in real time – can be very useful to work with suppliers, and reduce your event’s environmental impact through collaboration.
For extra tips on how to make your events sustainable, read this whitepaper.
Local sourcing and circular economy
Consider the origin of the supplier’s products and services. Prioritising local sourcing reduces transport emissions and supports the local economy, creating a positive community impact. For instance, a caterer sourcing from local, seasonal producers or a staging company that rents materials instead of producing new items can add sustainable value.
Truly sustainable suppliers apply circular economy principles: extending the life cycle of materials through reuse, recycling, or remanufacturing. Look for initiatives like take-back programmes, reverse logistics (collecting used materials for recycling), or eco-efficient design. These approaches signal a mature sustainability mindset focused on continuous improvement rather than minimum compliance.
Transparency is a clear sign of commitment. A truly committed supplier will not shy away from sharing its sustainability policies and progress. Ask to see their environmental or Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy in writing: this document should detail targets on resource use, fair treatment of employees, impact on the local community, etc.
Check whether they publish sustainability reports or have undergone external audits. These can reveal concrete results (e.g. emissions reduction figures, waste recycling rates, or supported social initiatives). Prior experience with sustainable events is also useful – ask for references or case studies. For instance, knowing that an AV supplier successfully ran an event powered entirely by renewable energy, or that a venue eliminated single-use plastics for a major conference, adds credibility.
In case of suppliers without much experience in sustainability, at least assess that they show willingness and knowledge: that they understand the importance of certain details and are open to comply with the green criteria you propose. Proactive attitude and collaboration are key. In the end, sustainability in events requires teamwork and open communication between organiser and supplier to avoid greenwashing and to actually meet environmental objectives.
Innovation and continuous improvement
Sustainability is an evolving field. Work with suppliers who seek to innovate and improve over time. Ask about recently implemented green initiatives or future plans. A supplier investing in clean technology, staff training, or digital tools to reduce environmental impact shows leadership and adaptability.
This forward-looking approach ensures your supply chain can meet rising standards and adopt more efficient solutions as they become available. Choosing partners with a mindset of continuous improvement helps keep your events aligned with best practices and ahead of regulatory or client expectations.
Conclusion: Towards More Sustainable Events with Strategic Partners
Integrating sustainability into events is not a passing trend, but a long-term necessity. The suppliers you choose are instrumental in achieving that goal. By applying criteria such as those outlined above, you can build a network of allies who share your values and contribute tangibly to reducing the environmental impact of your events.
A sustainable event is built on collaboration: clearly communicate your expectations, verify supplier practices, and work together to innovate. In doing so, you not only support the planet but enhance the value of your events – improving your reputation, meeting current and future regulations, and delivering an experience that reflects the values many of us now hold dear.
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