More companies are taking a stand against single-use plastic, and the scientific community is no exception as seen with the Australian Marine Sciences Association's conference. The event was hosted by sustainability brand 'Global Citizen' and was able to host a plastic-free conference for 570 marine science academics, students, and professionals.
In order to achieve this impressive feat, the organizers used stiff cardboard name badges and bamboo lanyards, natural conference tote bags, water jugs and glass cups, and reusable plates and silverware. In addition, attendees were asked to bring reusable water bottles and coffee cups and all required printed materials were printed on sustainably sourced paper. Even the writing utensils provided were sustainably sourced pencils with multiple sharpening stations available.
Consumers can expect to attend more events -- such as concerts, festivals, and sports games -- who have committed to sustainable practices.
Zero-Plastic Science Conferences
Australian Marine Sciences Association Hosted a Sustainable Event
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Events - Hosting plastic-free and sustainable events will become a common trend among different industries, driven by a growing concern for environmental preservation.
2. Eco-friendly Materials - The increasing use of eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, sustainably sourced paper and reusable products will change the way businesses operate.
3. Waste Reduction - Emphasis on waste reduction in events and conferences will become a popular trend in the near future, resulting in the elimination of single-use plastics and paper products.
Industry Implications
1. Event Planning Industry - The event planning industry has numerous opportunities to adopt sustainable practices like zero-plastic events and use of eco-friendly materials like bamboo, which can help reduce environmental impacts.
2. Hospitality Industry - Hotels and hospitality venues can take a cue from the Australian Marine Sciences Association and start using sustainable materials and practices in conferences, meetings and events.
3. Sports and Entertainment Industry - The sports and entertainment industry can start implementing sustainable practices like zero-waste concessions, compost stations and water refill stations, and eliminate the use of non-recyclable and single-use plastics during events and concerts.