The Ultimate Guide to Zero Waste Event Planning: 10 Corporate Green Event Practice Cases in Hong Kong

Introduction

As environmental awareness continues to rise, Hong Kong corporations are increasingly prioritizing sustainable development, with zero waste event planning becoming a crucial component of corporate social responsibility. According to the Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department's Green Event Guidelines, Hong Kong hosts numerous events of various scales annually, and we have the obligation and are well-positioned to reduce waste and carbon footprints as much as practicable. The business events sector generates US$621.4 billion in direct GDP and creates 26 million jobs globally, ranking 13th largest if it were a country, meaning business events have enormous potential to accelerate green recovery by creating positive social and environmental impact.

Core Principles of Zero Waste Event Planning

Source Reduction

Avoiding waste generation in the first place is a crucial measure in any waste reduction strategy. According to Hong Kong's "Waste Blueprint for Hong Kong 2035," the medium-term target is to gradually reduce the per capita Municipal Solid Waste disposal rate by 40-45% and raise the recovery rate to about 55% by implementing MSW Charging.

Circular Economy Principles

Green events are conducive to circular business events, and clearing barriers is essential for sustainable events to become the norm.

10 Corporate Green Event Practice Cases in Hong Kong

Case 1: ReThink HK Sustainable Business Conference

ReThink HK is Hong Kong's best-attended and most ambitious business event for sustainable development. The 5th edition in 2024 hosted over 8,500 attendees and was designed specifically for business leaders, sustainability practitioners, and those responsible for researching and resourcing net-zero and ESG strategies.

Case 2: Friends of the Earth Night Walk Event

This event adhered to zero-waste principles, encouraging participants to bring reusable tableware and water bottles to enjoy refreshments, demonstrating how large outdoor events can achieve zero waste goals.

Case 3: Corporate Annual Meeting Digital Transformation

Many Hong Kong corporations have begun adopting digital invitations, electronic check-in systems, and online material sharing, significantly reducing paper usage.

Case 4: Reusable Tableware Systems

Corporate events provide reusable utensils and cups with washing stations, avoiding single-use plastic products.

Case 5: Food Donation Programs

Partnering with local charities to donate surplus event food to communities in need, achieving zero food waste.

Case 6: Green Venue Selection

Choosing venues with environmental certifications that typically feature energy-efficient equipment, waste sorting systems, and renewable energy facilities.

Case 7: Carbon-Neutral Transportation Arrangements

Providing public transport subsidies, arranging carpooling services, or selecting venues near public transportation to reduce the event's carbon footprint.

Case 8: Digital Gifts and Souvenirs

Replacing physical souvenirs with digital gift cards, online courses, or electronic certificates to reduce material consumption.

Case 9: Waste Sorting and Recycling Stations

Setting up clearly marked waste sorting stations at event venues with dedicated staff to guide participants in proper sorting.

Case 10: Green Procurement from Suppliers

Selecting suppliers with environmental certifications, prioritizing local, organic, or sustainably sourced products and services.

Implementation Challenges and Solutions

Budget Considerations

While initial investment may be higher, sustainable events can save costs long-term and enhance brand image. Companies need realistic budgeting for sustainable events.

Supplier Cooperation

Close collaboration with suppliers is needed to ensure they understand and support zero waste goals. Difficulty in comparing different sustainable options is one of the main barriers.

Conclusion

Zero waste event planning is not only an environmental responsibility but also an opportunity for companies to demonstrate innovation and social responsibility. Through these 10 practice cases, Hong Kong corporations can gradually build a more sustainable event culture, contributing to Hong Kong's 2035 waste reduction targets.