Green Events

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Starting in spring 2021, the Newport Rhode Race has become the newest host of a certified green event.

The America’s Cup Race is the oldest and one of the most prestigious sporting trophies in the world. In 2012, the race retuned to Rhode Island after a 20-year absence. It was certified as a green event by DEM.

This month the CVS Health Charity Classic Event Series kicks off 21-years of giving with the third annual Crave RI food festival in Providence. The CVS Corporation has a history of working with DEM to achieve a green event status to reduce waste and the environmental impact of their events.

In 2018, the Volvo Ocean Race returned to Newport after a memorable debut visit in 2015. Organizers of this DEM certified green event set goals to raise awareness about the health of the oceans, reduce single-use plastic and the carbon emissions, and ensure the event leaves a positive legacy on the local community.

Large amounts of plastic and food waste are generated at events around the world. Mirroring the proliferation of disposables in society, festivals and events consume vast amounts of single-use plastics, food, and plastic serve ware for drinks and food. One can only imagine the shocking sea of litter often left by audiences at events.

The “Green Hospitality” program at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) provides an opportunity for event organizers to make a positive change in society in a way that is unavailable to many other sectors. Festivals can control what comes onsite and into their ecosystem and they can choose to take action to limit plastic waste and, by doing so, can positively influence the attitudes and behavior of their audiences. In the temporary world of festivals, convenience is a crucial factor. Being able to sell large quantities of drinks quickly, in a disposable plastic bottle or cup, has become the norm. It is often perceived as the only practical option for event organizers, and vital for maintaining revenues. However long lasting, durable, reusable solutions are available!

The RIDEM green events checklist provides a menu of best management practices that event organizers can use to achieve a reduction in environmental impact at events and festivals. The RIDEM encourages you to certify your next event as a green event. Please see the following links to get started on planning your green event!

View Checklist

Small Events Recommendations PDF file, less than 1

List of Certified Green Events PDF file, less than 1

Example Sustainability Pact - Vendors Word file, less than 1

Example Sustainability Pact - Caterers Word file, less than 1