With the economy and tariff issues taking up more than their fair share of the news cycle, the environment has seemingly been pushed off the radar. However, sustainability needs to remain a priority for individuals, companies and all levels of government, and of course, our events sector.
From large festivals to intimate gatherings, we who work in the events space generate our fair share of waste and carbon emissions. Single-use decor, mass-produced materials and short-lived installations all contribute to a cycle of consumption that can strain our planet’s finite resources. But what if we could shift this narrative—not by compromising creativity or experience, but by rethinking the way events are designed and executed?
A growing movement within the industry is proving that it’s possible. And at the heart of that movement is a concept that’s well known to us all: rentals.
Rentals as a pathway to sustainability
Rentals are inherently sustainable. By opting for reusable, high-quality inventory—whether it’s furniture, tableware or linens—event planners drastically reduce the waste typically associated with single-use setups. This model, which we are proud to champion at every opportunity, supports the principles of the circular economy, promoting reuse over replacement, and these important advantages:
Reusability and waste reduction: Instead of landfills overflowing with discarded centerpieces, furniture, tableware, linens and plastic chairs, rental items return to circulation, serving hundreds of events throughout their lifespan.
Lower carbon footprint: A significant reduction in carbon emissions is achieved by eliminating the need to constantly manufacture, package and transport new items.
Resource conservation: Well-crafted pieces are built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and preserving valuable raw materials like wood, metal and fabric.
Energy-efficient operations: As companies continue to prioritize sustainability, renting energy-efficient cleaning equipment and storage processes that minimize water and electricity usage can help them reach their sustainability goals.
Quality: A memorable event is more easily achievable with quality embedded in each and every detail, and this is simply more attainable with and through high-quality, innovative rental pieces.
From resource conservation to reduced landfill waste, the benefits are clear. Energy-efficient cleaning and storage processes can further minimize environmental impact, making rentals one of the most practical and impactful choices available to event professionals today.
The power of purpose-driven planning
Sustainability isn’t just about minimizing harm—it’s about maximizing positive impact. That’s why rental companies are going a step further by donating retired inventory to charitable organizations. In 2024, for instance, Element Event Solutions donated 47,963 items to Romero House, a charitable organization that offers resources for newly arrived refugee claimants in Toronto, Ont., Canada, which were then repurposed to furnish transitional housing for refugees and families in need, creating lasting value far beyond the original event. More than 10,000 items have also been sent to Habitat for Humanity and The Salvation Army, helping extend the life of high-quality event items while supporting meaningful causes.
This kind of contribution illustrates a powerful truth: sustainability is not just an environmental issue; it’s a social issue. By embracing a full-circle approach, one that prioritizes community partnerships alongside eco-conscious practices, companies can play a pivotal role in building more resilient, equitable systems.
Client expectations are evolving, too. More and more event organizers want to align their celebrations with their values. That might mean incorporating tableware, locally sourced decor and energy-saving LED lighting over traditional options. It also means working with partners who understand the nuances of sustainability and can offer practical, stylish and responsible solutions.
Event rental companies are uniquely positioned to lead this shift, by guiding clients to consider sustainable rental choices.
Sustaining sustainability
Sustainability cannot become a mere marketing theme. It’s a long-term commitment that requires daily decisions, from procurement and maintenance to partnerships and innovation.
As we look toward the future of the events industry, the question is no longer whether we can afford to be sustainable—but whether we can afford not to be.
The good news? The solutions are already within reach. And by embracing rentals as a foundational element of event design, we can start building greener, smarter and more socially responsible experiences—one celebration at a time.
Allison Freeman is the CEO of Element Event Solutions. Follow them on Instagram @element_event_solutions.
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