Free Guide
Event Waste Management Guide – created by isla Members
Curated by the isla Members that make up the isla Waste Management Action Group, the Event Waste Management Guide helps event professionals move beyond the take–make–waste approach with clear, practical actions you can apply from the very start of your planning process.
Who this is for
- The “build and burn” mindset is a major driver of event waste, with many materials becoming waste after a single use.
- Material choices have environmental impacts throughout their lifecycle, making responsible sourcing and measurement essential for reducing waste.
- Waste management starts before an event begins, with early planning helping set goals, align suppliers and improve measurement.
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What you'll find in 25 pages
Moving beyond the Take-Make-Waste Approach
The events industry has traditionally followed a “build and burn” mindset, where materials are often designed for short-term use before becoming waste. This guide introduces a more circular approach focused on reducing waste and improving material choices from the beginning.
Understanding the Impact of Event Materials
Effective waste management starts with understanding how materials are sourced, used and disposed of. Considering the full lifecycle of materials helps event professionals identify environmental impacts and make more informed decisions.
The Link Between Waste and Responsible Sourcing
Waste reduction goes beyond disposal. Responsible sourcing and tools such as Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) can help identify environmental impacts and support more sustainable material decisions.
Planning Early for Better Waste Outcomes
Successful waste management begins during the early stages of event planning. Setting clear goals, aligning suppliers and understanding available infrastructure creates the foundation for measurable progress.
Building Accountability Through Collaboration and Data
Reducing event waste requires collaboration between stakeholders, clear accountability and data-driven decision making to improve resource efficiency and track sustainability progress.
Practical Tools and Further Learning
The guide provides practical support for integrating waste and material planning into event operations, alongside resources covering waste management infrastructure and key sustainability terminology.
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