The Edinburgh Festival
It’s in full swing and if you’re new to the city it’s exciting, there’s so much happening, it’s a complete assault on the senses. If you live or work in the “old town” section of Edinburgh, every 20 yards there’s someone fresh faced, bleary-eyed, pleading with you to go to their show/event/activity. And with it comes a flyer, a gimmic, a brash hand-out that usually ends up, slowly disintegrating under foot, as yet another down-pour hits Edinburgh’s peak summer month. Event sustainability in this environment gets pushed to the back of the queue.
And yet, the term “sustainability” has become a guiding principle, a necessity even, for those of us who are serious about our craft. The pressure is on, from clients, attendees, and the world itself, to reduce our carbon footprints, to respect the environment, and to leave no trace—except for those indelible memories.
So, how do we rise to this challenge? How do we, as leaders in the event industry, innovate while staying true to the earth? The answer lies in a combination of foresight, planning, and a commitment to green practices.
Eco-Friendly Infrastructure: The Backbone of a Green Event
Most event venues in Edinburgh are bricks and mortar, but we’re in the marquee business. And a sturdy, well-constructed marquee is the heart of any outdoor event, and at Purvis Marquee Hire, we’ve spent years perfecting this art. But beyond providing shelter and space, our marquees can also be an essential part of your sustainability strategy.
We favour marquees made from recyclable or sustainably sourced materials. These aren’t just marketing claims—they’re our standard. Whether it’s choosing aluminium frames that can be recycled indefinitely or using canvas made from organic cotton, every choice counts.
Then, there’s the energy. Marquees, by nature, require lighting, heating, or cooling, depending on the weather and event type. But the days of diesel generators belching out fumes are slowly dieing out. Solar-powered generators, energy-efficient LED lighting, and smart climate control systems are now not just available but preferred. These innovations not only reduce your event’s carbon footprint but also set a powerful example to all who attend.
Waste Not, Want Not: Sustainable Waste Management
Here’s a sobering fact: the UK events industry produces hundreds of thousands of tonnes of waste each year, much of which ends up in landfills. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Sustainable waste management is one of the most significant areas where we, as event professionals, can make a real impact. Consider implementing a comprehensive waste separation and recycling system at your events. This means going beyond the basics of “bins for glass, paper, and plastic.” It’s about thinking ahead—working with suppliers to reduce packaging, encouraging vendors to use compostable materials, and perhaps most importantly, educating attendees on how they can help.
An innovative approach to waste is the concept of a “zero-waste” event. It may sound ambitious, but it’s achievable with the right planning. Work with caterers who offer reusable or biodegradable tableware. Opt for digital tickets and programs to reduce paper waste. Every step you take towards reducing waste contributes to the overall sustainability of your event.
Location, Location, Location: Sustainable Site Selection
Choosing the right location for your event isn’t just about aesthetics or logistics anymore; it’s about sustainability. Sites that are easily accessible by public transport reduce the need for car travel, which in turn reduces carbon emissions.
Moreover, some locations are already ahead of the curve, offering on-site renewable energy sources, waste management facilities, and water conservation systems. Partnering with these venues not only simplifies your sustainability efforts but also enhances your event’s green credentials.
But let’s go further. At Purvis Marquee Hire, we encourage the concept of “Leave No Trace.” It’s a principle borrowed from outdoor enthusiasts but perfectly applicable to large-scale events. The idea is simple: when the event is over, the site should look exactly as it did before, if not better. This means careful planning around not just waste, but also the impact on local flora and fauna, soil compaction, and water usage.
Leading the Charge: Setting the Standard for Sustainability
Sustainable event management is not just a trend; it’s a movement. As event professionals, we have the power to influence and shape the future of our industry. By adopting green practices, we’re not only meeting the demands of today but also setting the standards for tomorrow.
At Purvis, we don’t just provide marquees; we provide solutions. We understand the complexities of large-scale outdoor events, and we’re committed to helping you navigate the challenges of sustainability with innovation and expertise.
So, as you plan your next event, consider this: What kind of legacy do you want to leave? Will it be one of excess and waste, or will it be one that future generations will look back on with pride? The choice is yours, but know this—we’re here to help you make the right one.
