Making the Stop Gap Foundation Fundraiser Greener: A Sustainability Case Study
The StopGap Foundation, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to eliminating physical barriers in communities. They hosted its fifth annual fundraiser Ramp Up 2019, at Wychwood Barns in Toronto. The event attracted over 300 attendees and successfully raised more than $51,000 through ticket sales, silent auctions, raffles, merchandise, donations, and sponsorships.
Event Sustainability Goals
1. Waste Reduction: Minimize the amount of waste produced and divert as much of it from landfill as possible
2. Reusability: Incorporating as many rented items as possible, eliminating single-use
Our Approach
Eco-Friendly Events was engaged to support with waste reduction and reusability solutions.
1. Waste Reduction
To tackle waste reduction, we implemented several key strategies:
- Comprehensive Waste Receptacle Bin Program: Removed all garbage bins and only set up composting stations throughout Wychwood barns.
- Consulted Waste Management Company: Ensured all single-use items brought on-site were accepted into the compost bins (i.e. napkins and food waste)
- Digital Tickets: Eliminated paper tickets and programs, switching to a fully digital format accessed via smartphones
2. Reusability
To reduce the carbon footprint associated with travel to the event:
- Glassware: Opted to rent glassware for all beverages served at the event
- Signage: Took advantage of digital screens rented and placed throughout the venue for anything date or program related, and only utilized reusable pop up banners with StopGap branding
Outcomes
The sustainability initiatives led to impressive outcomes:
- Waste Reduction: Removed all recycling and garbage bins, diverted 100 waste from landfill
- Reusability: Eliminated the majority of single-use items with reusable glassware and signage
What Our Client Had to Say:
“Romina identified what we could do within the realms of what we had access to.”*
There’s not this bold standard. She meets people where they’re at and helps them determine the next best step to make their program or event more sustainable. It felt very accessible and understanding of our budget, resources, and time limitations.
Plus, it amplified the narrative of us doing good work.”
— Lee-Anne Bigwood, Program Manager, StopGap Foundation | Ramp Up 2019
Conclusion
By focusing on waste reduction and reusability, we completely eliminated landfill waste! Interested in greening your next event? Contact us at Eco-Friendly Events for a consultation!
