Green Event Materials & Practices
The University of Toronto is dedicated to sustainability and is committed to reducing more greenhouse gases than it emits, creating a net benefit in the community.
Reduce your impact
As part of this commitment, the Campus Events & Conference Services (CECS) team integrates sustainable practices into every stage of event planning. Working closely with the Office of Sustainability, we ensure that events—whether lectures, conferences, student fairs or ceremonies—are organized with eco-conscious principles at the core.
Our event experts collaborate with clients to recommend strategies that minimize environmental impact and help events qualify for the university’s Sustainable Event Certification program.
Sustainable events best practices
Venue, Permitting & Set-Up
- Choose venues that are assessed for accessibility.
- Digitize marketing materials, invitations and tickets to reduce paper waste.
Food Sourcing & Waste
- Order food carefully to match attendance and minimize leftovers.
- Provide clearly marked garbage, recycling and compost bins.
- Use china or reusable tableware instead of disposables.
- Source menus from local suppliers whenever possible.
Material Waste Reduction
- Provide water in glasses with refill stations instead of disposable bottles or cups.
- Ensure waste sorting stations are visible and accessible.
- Engage Campus Events Ambassadors to assist attendees with proper waste sorting.
- Serve condiments in bulk rather than in individual packaging.
- Prioritize reusable or compostable containers.
- Reuse table linens, decorations, banners, posters and table numbers whenever possible.
Closing Practices
- Collect lanyards and name badges for reuse at future events.
Event Support Services
The CECS team provides Campus Events Ambassadors to assist with:
- Name badge preparation and on-site registration.
- Collecting lanyards and materials post-event.
- Supporting guests with enhanced waste sorting practices.
These services significantly improve the sustainability and overall efficiency of events on campus.
Our Broader Commitment
The University of Toronto’s sustainability practices are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—17 global objectives designed to be a blueprint for a better and more sustainable future. Established in 2015 by the United Nations General Assembly, these goals are to be achieved by 2030, and U of T is proud to play its part.
