Consume responsibly –
design consciously.
…responsibly planned events are effective for tomorrow.
Consumption is a constant companion – whether it’s a quick coffee to go, traveling, working in our daily lives, or planning events. Every decision we make has a direct impact on the environment, resources, and the processes behind the products. That’s why it’s worth pausing and asking: “Does what’s being planned create real added value for the customer – and isn’t there a more sustainable way?” SDG 12 reminds us precisely of this: to use resources consciously, avoid waste, and design production and consumption processes in a way that protects our planet in the long term.
Waste reduction isn’t a new topic – but it’s one that offers us more opportunities than ever at events today. Because even though single-use plastics and overflowing trash cans are still a common sight in everyday life, it’s clear that there are alternatives – and more and more event organizers are proving it. Reusable cups, reusable buffet trays, creative recycling concepts, and giveaways that are actually used – all of this makes events not only more sustainable, but also more modern and credible. The facts are further motivational: around 80% of the world’s plastic waste still ends up in landfills or the environment. But every event that consciously conserves resources, avoids waste, and utilizes functioning recycling systems contributes to a positive shift in this trend. Sustainable event planning demonstrates that less waste means higher quality – for guests, for organizers, and for our planet.
Especially in industrialized countries like Germany, we bear a special responsibility – and have great potential to shape the future. As part of global supply chains, our decisions can influence how products are manufactured, transported, and disposed of.
Whether we choose fair trade food, use environmentally certified products, or avoid unnecessary packaging – every decision sends a clear signal to companies. The same applies to events: those who shop consciously and produce sustainably strengthen their own credibility and move supply chains in a greener direction.
Global resource consumption is rising – and we’ve long since been consuming more than the Earth can regenerate. This puts a strain on the environment and ecosystems, leading to material and quality loss in the long run. But this also presents a tremendous opportunity. Events, festivals, and corporate functions, in particular, offer great potential: reusable instead of disposable, regional products instead of long supply chains, digital solutions instead of a flood of paper. By making such choices, organizers demonstrate that sustainability doesn’t mean sacrifice, but rather creates space for creative, modern, and efficient solutions. This is how events are created that leave a lasting impression – while simultaneously conserving resources.
