“We need to be more sustainable” but what does that really mean for events?

It’s a phrase we hear all the time from our clients! “We need to be more sustainable.”

Sustainability isn’t just going green! 

Let’s discover what sustainable events really mean and how to make your next event more conscious, creative and impactful.

It’s a great statement of intent, at Maverick Live, we get it. Sustainability has become a nice to have in the events industry, but also one of the most misunderstood. We are proud to be leading the way for sustainability for event businesses.

It’s about far more than ditching plastic straws or asking people to bring their own water bottles. True sustainability goes deeper, touching every part of how an event is planned, delivered and remembered.

Sustainability isn’t just “being green”

When most people think of sustainability, they think of the environment, recycling, reducing waste, or cutting carbon emissions. And yes, that’s part of it. But sustainability in events is broader than that. 

It’s about creating experiences that have a positive impact on people, the planet, and the community without compromising quality or creativity.

At Maverick, we like to think about it in three parts:

1. Environmental sustainability – Reducing the impact your event has on the planet. That might mean sourcing local suppliers, minimising travel, reusing materials, or offsetting emissions.
   
   
2. Social sustainability – Ensuring your event supports people and communities. Is it inclusive? Are you supporting local businesses? Does it promote wellbeing and connection?
   
   
3. Economic sustainability – Making sure your event is financially responsible and future-focused. It’s about making choices that are good for business in the long term, not just for the short-term budget.

Balancing all three is what makes an event truly sustainable.

Why it matters

Let’s be honest: sustainability used to feel like a “nice-to-have.” But today, it’s becoming a non-negotiable.

Attendees, sponsors and venues are increasingly conscious of their environmental and social footprint and they expect the same from the events they’re part of. According to recent research, over 80% of event attendees say sustainability influences their decision to attend.

But this isn’t just about reputation. Sustainable choices often lead to better events. You can save money by cutting waste, streamline logistics with smarter digital tools, and create more engaging experiences that resonate with modern audiences.

And from a bigger-picture perspective, we’re all part of an industry that thrives on bringing people together. If we want to keep doing that in the years ahead, we need to make sure the way we do it doesn’t cost the earth - literally.

What sustainability looks like in practice for Maverick Live?

Sustainability is about making conscious, measurable improvements at every stage. Here are some practical ways to make your next event more sustainable.

• Certified and accountable

We hold Silver EcoVadis status, placing us in the top 15% of sustainable suppliers worldwide. This independently verified certification reflects our structured approach to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) across Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement, supported by clear policies and measurable results.

• Reducing transport emissions

We work closely with regional suppliers and venues to reduce transport distances and support local economies. To further improve our environmental impact, we’ve invested in shared pool cars, reducing the number of individual car journeys, fuel consumption, and overall carbon emissions. These vehicles are used across all events.

• Smarter internal systems

We’ve updated all internal platform and equipment information so that every item, from technical kit to logistics, now includes an environmental factor. Our equipment management system provides environmental impact data for every line item on a project, including equipment tonnage, fuel use, and transport considerations, allowing us to make more informed, lower-impact decisions from the outset.

• Reducing single-use materials

From banners and staging to catering, we prioritise reusable, recyclable, or compostable alternatives and actively avoid unnecessary single-use materials.

• Planning for waste

We partner with venues that can separate, measure, and track recycling and composting, and we plan ahead for surplus food, supporting redistribution or donation wherever possible.

• Digital-first thinking

Many clients now choose event apps or QR codes instead of printed programmes. This reduces paper use, simplifies updates and improves the delegate experience.

• Conscious catering choices

Our venue partners focus on local, seasonal menus, reduced meat options, and thoughtful portion planning to minimise food waste without compromising quality.

• Inclusive by design

Sustainability goes beyond environmental impact. We design events that are accessible and inclusive, with spaces, schedules, and experiences that support wellbeing for all attendees.

• Measuring and improving impact

We supply every client with a full carbon impact report for their event, clearly outlining emissions, waste, and key contributors. Alongside this, we make practical, tailored recommendations to help clients reduce their impact on future events.

• Expert leadership

Our approach is guided by Vicky, our internal Sustainability Champion, who holds a degree in Sustainable Event Management and ensures best practice is embedded across everything we do.

These small steps add up. And the great thing is, they often lead to more efficient, memorable, and meaningful events.

Collaboration is key

Here’s the thing: no one can make an event sustainable on their own. It takes a team effort, clients, organisers, venues, and suppliers all have a role to play.

At Maverick Live, we see sustainability as a shared responsibility. That’s why we work with clients to embed sustainable thinking right from the start, from concept development and logistics through to content, design, and post-event reporting.

We help you find the balance between creative impact and conscious delivery so your event still has the wow factor, but with less waste and more purpose.

The Maverick way forward

Sustainability isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being intentional. It’s about asking the right questions, making small but meaningful changes, and committing to doing better each time.

At Maverick Live, we believe that great events can both inspire people and respect the planet. Whether you’re looking to make your next conference carbon-neutral, cut down on waste, or simply start making smarter choices, we can help you find realistic, creative solutions that work for your brand and your budget.

Because the future of events isn’t just about bigger or better, it’s about being brilliantly sustainable.

If you’re looking to make an impact with your events in 2026 reach out to: hello@mavericklive.co.uk