Thanks, But I'd Rather Have a Drink

Full disclosure--this blog post was from a year ago. I am running in again because it pertains to our series on simplicity in sustainability and how we can make a difference, one practice at a time!

In an attempt to go green (but mostly to save money) we drastically reduced the number of conference bags ordered for EclipseCon this spring. At registration, instead of just handing them a conference bag, we asked the participants if they wanted one. They were also told they would receive an extra drink ticket if they refused the bag. Surprisingly (or not) more than 50% wanted a drink more than a bag.

This also allowed the conference to eliminate sponsored items getting pre-stuffed in the bags. Take a look at the areas we saved money:on purchasing and shipping of the bags (50% fewer),

• on the cost of drayage with the decorator (lower poundage)
• less exhibitor promotional materials shipped
• minimized bag stuffing, labor costs
• less trash produced

These savings more than offset the cost of a beverage and provided creative and fun solutions to the existing challenges we planners face!