Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s shaping the way NYC events are planned and executed. You can host a fabulous event without it being wasteful or environmentally harmful. By making mindful choices, you can reduce the carbon footprint, trash produced, and electricity used during your events. From zero-waste vendors to plant-based catering, here’s how some of the biggest "green" event trends of 2025 are making a lasting impact.
Zero-Waste Event Vendors
Look for NYC event vendors who prioritize minimizing waste or achieving zero-waste operations. This can be challenging depending on the service the vendor provides. However, every event service provider who offers near-zero waste contributes to the overall cause of sustainability. Zero-waste examples include compostable packaging, sustainably made event furniture, or recyclable products.
Digital Engagement Over Paper
Paper creates a significant amount of waste. Switching from paper elements to digital can reduce this waste and increase the sustainability of the event. Instead of sending out paper invitations and RSVP cards, use digital ones. Skip using paper for event polls and feedback. Instead, you can use an event app that attendees can log into. An event app can also provide information about the event and provide attendee support for everything from check-in to menus. If the event is a corporate or professional one, encourage attendees to network and connect digitally. This reduces the need for business cards as technology can instantly share contact information.
Sustainable Venue Selection
Work with NYC venues that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices. This can be accomplished in various ways, from energy conversation to recycling of trash. Ask the venue about the steps it takes to reduce its potentially negative impact on the environment. In addition, think about the location. A venue in NYC that is centrally located to the intended attendees will reduce the amount of travel emissions created by attendees traveling to and from the event.
Plant-Based Catering Options
Catering is one of the core elements of any corporate or social event. It can also be one of the most wasteful. As the event planner, you can improve the sustainability of your event by working with caterers who focus on sourcing locally grown food and plant-based options. Dishes that are rich in plants and vegetables have a reduced carbon footprint and promote health-conscious choices. With so many world-class caterers in NYC, there are plenty of options that can be sustainable and on theme for the event.
On-Demand Badge Printing
Pre-printing event materials can be wasteful when you don’t have as many guests as you expected. You can hold off on printing materials until the event to eliminate waste. With on-demand printing, you can print event materials as needed. This reduces the event’s waste, helping it to be more sustainable. And, it goes without saying, opting for a digital badge and check-in process will eliminate the need for printing altogether.
Alternative Event Lighting
Instead of depending on electricity, look for ways you can utilize natural lighting during the day and alternative lighting sources in the evening. Choose an event venue with large windows, allowing plenty of natural light to come in. Mirrors and a well-designed event space allow for natural light to flow through the space. This reduces energy consumption during the event. For evening events, look for venues that use alternative energy and eco-friendly lighting, such as LEDs.
Sustainable Event Merchandise
If the event will have merchandise, favors, or promotional items, they should be sustainable or recycled. These products should be something that people actually want and are designed to be used long-term. That way, you minimize the waste of guests throwing the items away post-event. Choosing products made from recycled products helps to reduce the carbon footprint of production.
Plan Eco-Chic NYC Events
Staying on top of event planning trends can help you attract new clients. Focusing on eco-chic means you can plan a fabulous event while also doing some good. Choose vendors who support this mission with their own sustainability efforts. Reduce waste by making smart choices about invitations, decor, catering, and promotional items. Attending The Event Planner Expo 2025 can help you in your efforts to plan more eco-friendly NYC events. Connect with vendors who share in your efforts to prioritize environmentally friendly event planning efforts.
Get your tickets early to The Event Planner Expo 2025, set for this October and take your events to the next level!
