Running an event today means thinking beyond the music, food, and logistics - it also means taking responsibility for the footprint it leaves behind. Festivals, conferences, and catering operations can generate tons of single-use waste over just a few days. But with the right materials, you can dramatically reduce that impact without sacrificing quality or convenience.
At Grale, we’ve worked closely with organizers, venues, and brands who are making sustainability part of their event DNA. Here’s how to do it right.
1. Rethink single-use - Choose materials that return to nature
The biggest source of event waste often comes from disposable cups, straws, and lids. Traditional plastic options might be cheap upfront, but they linger for decades after the event ends.
Compostable alternatives, like Grale’s fiber-based cups, lids, and straws, are designed to break down safely, turning into nutrient-rich compost instead of microplastics. They’re certified to meet strict European standards (EN 13432), meaning they decompose completely in industrial composting environments.
Tip: Partner with local composting or waste management providers early in the planning process to ensure the right disposal streams are in place.
2. Match the right product to the right use
Events come in all shapes and sizes, and so do your packaging needs.
Cups: Choose compostable paper cups for both hot and cold drinks. They’re sturdy, leak-resistant, and fully compatible with compostable lids and straws.
Lids: Go for secure-fit paper lids that are both functional and sustainable. Grale’s patented lids are fully recyclable and compostable - and designed to work seamlessly with our cups and straws.
Straws: Forget soggy paper straws. Our Grale straws are durable, comfortable, and maintain shape in cold, hot, and even alcoholic beverages.
Tip: Keep things simple! Using one cohesive product line (like Grale’s) ensures a perfect fit and smooth logistics.
3. Communicate clearly with guests and staff
Even the most sustainable products can end up in the wrong bin without clear instructions.
Use simple signage and consistent colors for compost bins, recycling, and general waste. Make sure staff and vendors know where each product goes. Small actions like labeling compostable items with recognizable symbols or messages (e.g., “Certified compostable - please compost me!”) can make a big difference in sorting accuracy.
Tip: Announce your sustainability efforts - guests notice and appreciate events that walk the talk.
4. Partner with sustainable suppliers
Work with partners who are transparent about their materials, certifications, and production processes. At Grale, we use non-edible plants and waste-based resources, helping reduce pressure on the food chain while minimizing carbon impact.
Choosing certified, traceable suppliers ensures you’re not just “going green” in name, but in practice.
5. Think long-term: From one event to every event
Sustainability isn’t a one-time decision; it’s an ongoing process. Each event is an opportunity to improve. Gather feedback from your team, waste partners, and guests after every event to refine your approach.
With every better choice, whether it’s switching to compostable drinkware or reducing unnecessary packaging, you’re shaping the future of events toward true circularity.
Ready to make your next event more sustainable?
Explore Grale’s range of compostable cups, lids, and straws designed for real-world performance and responsible disposal. Together, we can make sustainability the standard - one event at a time.
