Construction and set design can be more essential and also more challenging items in the organization of our events. It is an area where the benefits of a sustainable approach can be more visible. Let's take a look at ways in which we can approach the construction and creation of sets and scenery more sustainably and often more cheaply.
The most direct route to sustainability, and thus to saving some money, is the path of the so-called "circular economy." When the event is over, we don't throw away the materials purchased or the constructions done, but we disassemble, repair, and reuse them. If we don't have a use for them ourselves, we offer them to someone else to use. Ideally, we also build ourselves primarily with recycled or second-hand materials. In other words, we don't degrade into waste the materials that can still serve us well but find new uses for them, and likewise, we prefer to use existing and used commodities before buying new ones.
Platforms for finding and then offering these used but still functional materials already exist. One of these platforms that deals with putting waste materials back into circulation is Cyrkl, Europe’s largest industrial waste management, and green sourcing platform. Here you can find or offer used materials of all kinds that can be reused and recycled.
Materials can also be sourced on your own. We can negotiate second-hand materials, barter them or contact a local collection yard.
We can rent or borrow if we do not need to own the materials or parts of the scenery or buildings. Several companies specialize in renting building components and technology for cultural and other events. In addition to this, arrangements can be made with the local municipality for rentals. Some municipalities and towns may also own various types of roofing, stages, and audio-visual equipment for their events. By communicating with them, we can strengthen relationships with the local community and save money compared to rental companies.
If we borrow materials and items, we guarantee to the owner that we will return them undamaged and in good condition. This can also contribute indirectly to sustainability, because we also take care, in our interest, that the borrowed items are not destroyed, or we contribute to their repair. In this and similar ways, we do not have to buy as much and at the same time, we create less new waste.
Find your own path to sustainability, invent alternatives, and be creative. Don't be discouraged by the fact that something is not being done yet, rather think about how it could be done. Even small changes can make a big difference in the end. In the next article, we will look at a sustainable approach to public relations, promotions, and promotional items.