New guide aims to make youth events in Gatineau more eco-friendly

Tashi Farmilo

Enviro Éduc-Action and Ado Gatineau have released a new resource aimed at helping young people in Gatineau organize environmentally responsible events, offering practical advice on reducing waste, managing food services and encouraging sustainable transportation.

The publication, titled Événements écoresponsables – Trucs et astuces (Eco-friendly events – Tips and tricks), is intended for youth groups, schools and community organizations planning activities such as festivals, school events or community gatherings. It outlines ways to organize events that limit adverse environmental impact and promote responsible use of resources.

Recommendations include setting up stations for recycling, compost and garbage, using reusable dishes and utensils, and offering water refill points so participants can bring their own bottles. Organizers are also encouraged to rely on digital communication instead of printed materials and to avoid distributing single-use promotional items.

Additional sections focus on event logistics. Suggested measures include selecting locations accessible by walking, cycling or public transit, promoting carpooling and providing secure bicycle parking. Food service options highlighted in the document include offering vegetarian choices, choosing local products when possible and redistributing leftover food to volunteers or community groups.

The document also highlights ways to reduce waste before an event begins, such as sharing decorations between activities, renting equipment instead of purchasing new items and using reusable banners instead of disposable decorations.

Examples from events in Gatineau include bulk food service to limit packaging, digital programs accessed through QR codes and volunteer teams that help participants sort waste during activities.

The guide is available in French at: https://enviroeducaction.org/wp-content/uploads/Trucs-et-astuces_Guide-evenements-ecoresponsables_Compress.pdf 

Enviro Éduc-Action and Ado Gatineau have released a practical guide to help youth, schools and community groups organize events that reduce waste and promote environmentally responsible practices. Photo: Courtesy of the Enviro Éduc-Action Facebook page