From backyard barbecues to business forums, how your event can protect our most precious resource
Whether you’re planning a conference, a networking event, or a family get-together, your decisions can have ripple effects on how water is valued, used, and protected. At WSAP, we believe every event—large or small—is an opportunity to lead by example and apply the principles of Water Stewardship in practical, meaningful ways.
We often associate water sustainability with big industry or major infrastructure, but real impact starts with the everyday. And the good news? You don’t have to run a festival to make a difference.
The Importance of Water Stewardship in Events
Water Stewardship is the responsible planning, use, and management of water resources in a way that is environmentally sustainable, socially equitable, culturally sensitive and economically beneficial. Applying these principles to events requires consideration of how water is sourced, utilised, and disposed of throughout the event lifecycle. The benefits extend beyond sustainability, contributing to cost savings, regulatory compliance, and positive brand reputation. Events that incorporate water stewardship can demonstrate leadership in sustainability while ensuring their activities do not place undue strain on local water supplies.
Strategies for Integrating Water Stewardship into Events
Venue Selection and Water Efficiency
Selecting a venue with a strong commitment to water stewardship is one of the most impactful decisions an event organizer can make. Venues with water-efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and advanced wastewater treatment processes help minimize unnecessary water consumption. In addition to ensuring water-efficient infrastructure, it is beneficial to work with venue partners who are transparent about their water use and have commitments to continuous improvement in water conservation. Furthermore, outdoor events should be planned with consideration of local water availability, ensuring that excessive irrigation or disruption of natural waterways is avoided.
Sustainable Catering and Water-Smart Food Choices
Catering is often one of the most water-intensive components of an event. Choosing caterers who prioritize sustainable water use in food production and preparation is a key step toward reducing the event’s water footprint. Organizers can opt for menus that feature plant-based options and seasonal produce, which generally require less water to cultivate than meat and imported goods. Additionally, using refillable water stations instead of single-use bottled water not only reduces plastic waste but also lessens the significant amount of water used in plastic production and disposal. Providing water-efficient dishwashing options and encouraging attendees to bring reusable water bottles further support these efforts.
Event Design and Waste Reduction
Reducing unnecessary water use extends beyond direct consumption to the materials and waste management strategies employed at the event. Printed materials, disposable decorations, and excess packaging contribute to environmental waste and can indirectly impact water systems through their production and disposal processes. Utilizing digital alternatives for event programs, tickets, and communication can significantly reduce resource use. Additionally, implementing robust waste separation and recycling stations ensures that waste does not contribute to water pollution through landfill runoff. Vendors and exhibitors should also be encouraged to adopt water-saving practices in their operations.
Water Access and Hydration Management
Ensuring access to clean drinking water while minimizing waste is essential for responsible event planning. Providing well-placed refill stations allows attendees to stay hydrated without relying on disposable water bottles. Partnering with local ethical water suppliers ensures that water is sourced sustainably. Encouraging the use of reusable bottles, either by offering incentives or incorporating branded, reusable alternatives, further reduces waste. By making hydration an integral part of sustainable event planning, organizers can demonstrate a commitment to responsible water use.
Responsible Wastewater Management
Wastewater generated at events must be managed in a way that prevents contamination of local water sources. Collaborating with venues and sanitation providers to ensure proper treatment and disposal of wastewater is crucial. Where possible, event organizers should consider utilizing composting toilets, water-saving sanitation solutions, and eco-friendly cleaning products. This approach not only supports water conservation but also reduces pollution and aligns the event with global sustainability standards.
Water Stewardship in Different Event Types
Corporate and Networking Events
Business events and networking sessions offer an opportunity to set an example for sustainability leadership. Organizers can establish guidelines for water stewardship by ensuring that venues adhere to water-efficient practices and that catering aligns with sustainable water use principles. Educating attendees about water conservation efforts through event materials, speeches, or digital platforms can further spread awareness and encourage wider adoption of these practices in professional settings.
Conferences and Large Gatherings
Large-scale events present both challenges and opportunities in water management. These events can consume substantial amounts of water, but they also have the ability to drive significant positive change by influencing large audiences. Offsetting water use through investments in local watershed restoration projects, setting sustainability benchmarks for vendors, and conducting post-event water audits help ensure that these gatherings leave a positive legacy. Collaborating with sustainability partners to monitor and publicly report water usage further demonstrates accountability and commitment to responsible event management.
Family Events and Celebrations
Sustainability practices are not limited to large-scale events; they can also be applied to smaller, more intimate gatherings such as weddings, birthdays, and community festivals. Simple actions such as choosing local, in-season food, using reusable dishware, and implementing water-conscious cleaning practices can make a meaningful difference. Encouraging guests to engage in water-conscious behaviors, such as bringing reusable bottles and minimizing water waste, helps instill long-term sustainable habits within communities.
Conclusion
Integrating Water Stewardship principles into events is a proactive way to contribute to global sustainability efforts while enhancing the overall experience for attendees. Whether through venue selection, catering choices, waste reduction, or water-efficient sanitation, event organizers have numerous opportunities to reduce their water footprint. As awareness grows, the adoption of sustainable water practices in events will become a standard expectation, benefiting both people and the planet. Events serve as platforms for education and action, and by making responsible water choices, we can collectively work towards a more sustainable future.
Join the Movement
Are you planning an event? Start incorporating water stewardship today! Engage with sustainability-conscious vendors, educate your attendees, and make responsible water choices to create a lasting positive impact. By integrating these principles, we can ensure that every event—no matter the size or type—contributes to a healthier planet. Download our handy WSAP Event Checklist below.
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