How SMEs and Event Organisers Can Ditch Plastic for Good: A Guide for Plastic Free July (and Beyond)
#PlasticFreeJuly is a global movement challenging individuals and organisations to refuse single-use plastics for one month—and ideally, for good. For SME businesses and event organisers, it’s a valuable opportunity to reassess plastic consumption and implement long-term, sustainable practices that reduce waste and support your environmental goals.
If you're wondering where to begin, this guide will walk you through smart, impactful changes - both in day-to-day operations and event design - that will help your business become more sustainable and less reliant on plastic.
Why SMEs Should Care About Plastic Waste
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of most economies, and collectively, they have a huge role to play in tackling the plastic crisis. While it may feel like sustainability is something only big corporations can afford, reducing single-use plastic can be cost-effective, brand-boosting, and surprisingly simple.
Consumers are more eco-conscious than ever, and sustainable practices are no longer just a “nice-to-have”—they’re a competitive advantage.
Habit Shifts To Learn from Plastic Free July
A visit to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin recently reminded me how subtle design choices can change behaviour. The cafe there offered no plastic bottles. Instead, drinks were sold in cartons and cans, with no signage making a big deal about it. It simply was the way things were done. That’s the mindset businesses need to adopt—don’t make plastic the easy option.
This approach aligns with Ireland’s plastic bottle levy, but the takeaway is universal: stop offering plastic as the default, and people will adapt.
Single-Use Plastic at Events
If you're an event organiser, plastic bottles are only part of the problem.
According to a recent report by isla (an independent body supporting sustainable events), plastic bottles account for just 7% of single-use catering waste. The bigger culprits? Materials that are hidden in plain sight;
Foamboard PVC signage
Vinyl graphics and synthetic display fabrics
Single-use carpet
Laminated delegate badges and brochures
Paper cups with plastic linings
Many plastic-free alternatives already exist but are underused. As an event planner, swapping these out should be a top sustainability priority.
5 Sustainable Swaps
Here’s how to make quick, meaningful changes to cut plastic in your next event—or in your office:
1. Eliminate Plastic Signage & Graphics
Use cardboard, honeycomb board, or recyclable paper instead of foam PVC or vinyl. Go digital where possible.
2. Stop Using Single-Use Carpet
Choose reusable flooring or modular carpet tiles that can be cleaned and reused across events.
3. Serve Coffee in Real Mugs
Stop relying on paper cups (often lined with plastic). Set up proper dishwashing facilities and use ceramic mugs or compostable alternatives. (But have a compost collection arranged!)
4. Rethink Badges and Literature
Avoid plastic lamination. Use uncoated or FSC-certified paper and explore digital badge systems.
5. Remove Plastic Bottles Entirely
Provide water refill stations at events and encourage attendees to bring their own bottles. Offer branded reusable bottles as part of your merchandise strategy.
Sustainable Office Tips for SMEs
Even if you're not running events, your office can still be a place to lead on plastic reduction:
Switch to glass milk bottles, loose tea, and bulk snacks to avoid packaging waste.
Use refillable pens and eco-friendly stationery.
Offer filtered tap water and ditch plastic cups.
Audit your cleaning supplies for microplastics or excessive plastic packaging.
If you produce physical products or ship items around, then review your packaging to see what you can switch out.
These changes not only reduce waste—they can cut costs over time and build a more conscious company culture.
Sustainability in Your Supply Chain
Reducing plastic isn’t just about what’s in your bin—it’s also about what comes through the door.
Ask your suppliers:
Do they use recyclable or plastic-free packaging?
Are products shipped in bulk or with reusable containers?
Are they open to take-back schemes for packaging and materials?
Building a sustainable supply chain starts with asking the right questions and setting clear expectations. Your influence as a client can shift industry standards.
Ready to Go Plastic-Free? Start With One Change
If you're an SME business owner or event professional looking to make your operations more sustainable, Plastic Free July is the perfect moment to take the first step. Start small: ditch the plastic bottles, swap out your signage, or audit your kitchen supplies.
These incremental changes add up—and they send a powerful message to your customers, your staff, and your community.
Need Help Creating a Plastic-Free Strategy?
Whether you're planning a sustainable event or want to reduce your business's plastic footprint, I can help. Get in touch for tailored sustainability support that works for your size, your budget, and your goals.
📩 Contact me today to kickstart your journey toward a more sustainable, plastic-free business.