Lean and Green in 2014

 Meeting budgets continue to be slashed by organizations preparing for another lean year in 2014.  You have done your best to save money, but let's face it, you can only cut a bagel into so many sections before the attendees threaten mutiny. 

Here are seven lean, green tips to save your organization money:

1. Serve beverages in pitchers like lemonade or iced tea instead of individual soft drinks.  This strategy eliminates both bottles and cans as well as the ++ of gratuity and tax on individual servings.
2. Reduce the size of the printed conference program saving paper, printing costs, shipping, freight hauling and staff handling.
3. Eliminate the conference bag.  Seriously, no one needs another one even if it is a reusable grocery bag and you don't have to hire people to stuff, schlep and hand them out.
4.  Meet in a location that doesn't require shuttle service.  Chose a site accessible by mass transit to the airport and walkable to hotels, restaurants and shopping.
5. Offer a virtual option for speakers and participants.  Bring in revenue without having to feed and house participants.
6. Serve hearty vegetarian meals for lunch (note:  we used this strategy this fall with no complaints,  attendees were full, and the food costs were much lower).
7.  Guarantee food with close and accurate numbers and chose plated instead of buffet meals.

How are you "Going Green by Saving Green" in 2014?  Share your ideas in the comment section and receive a free copy of the book.