Creating sustainable events: TRENZ 2019

Events can create a lot of waste but this year, New Zealand's biggest tourism and travel showcase was the most sustainable it's ever been.

Here's a run-down of all the ways TRENZ 2019 was our most sustainable yet, for you to consider for your next event, big or small!

Delegate bags: This year, TRENZ delegates were gifted recycled paper tote bags (no more laptop bags) and refillable notebooks that can be used again and again. These changes were made in response to delegate feedback from previous years. The TRENZ bags also contained reusable travel mugs.

Food and drink: Those travel mugs and the introduction of compostable takeaway coffee cups hugely lessened the environmental impact of the 10,000 cups of coffee estimated to be consumed during TRENZ. Where food standards allowed it, leftover food was donated to local foodbanks.

Signage: Physical signage was reduced with the use of digital screens throughout the venue, and the TIA Events team made a successful move to digital management systems to reduce paper wastage. This included the TRENZ phone app for delegates, who no longer needed to carry printed manuals to track everything they needed to know.

Waste and recycling: Clearly marked recycling bins were installed around the venue according to Rotorua's recycling and waste system.

Community: TRENZ delegates took part in pest trapping days through the TRENZ, DOC and Rotorua Canopy Tours partnership, and were gifted a native tree planted in their name through the TRENZ and Trees That Count partnership.