Implementing green practices at your next event is easier than you think. Recycling, composting, and simple reusable decor are just a few ways to lower your impact on the environment. With Nashville becoming a more sustainable city alternative options are more accessible than ever.
*Please note: The Cumberland River Compact is no longer in the River Center. Please contact the Bridge Building to get in touch about planning an event at this location.
Find the Perfect Green Event Space
Find a venue that offers the following:
- Recycling Program
- Composting Program
- Rainwater Harvesting
- Ideal local to hotels, accommodations and other common amenities
- Support or donations to non-profits – By hosting your next event at the River Center, you are supporting the Cumberland River Compact’s mission and work.
- LEED Certified – The River Center is located in The Bridge Building which broke a sustainability record back in 2013 for its designated parking for efficient vehicles, strategic location near public transportation, tinted windows, efficient water sources, a solar hot water system, a geo-exchange HVAC system and reusing 173,000 gallons of water annually.
Go Paperless
Ditch paper invites! Go virtual with your invites/save the dates. If you can’t go paperless, utilize a service with sustainability in their mission.
Location, Location
Walking distance to downtown and Music City Star – urge guests to ride their bike or walk. Or schedule group transportation or offer a coupon code for zero-emission rides. The River Center was strategically placed near public transportation to lower the environmental impact of its guests and is conveniently connected to the pedestrian walking bridge, offering a short walk to Downtown Nashville’s bustling bars and restaurants.
Food & Drink
When choosing your vendors keep sustainability at the forefront of your decision-making process. Find a caterer who already recycles, composts, provides reusable serveware/glassware or compostable options. Don’t overdo it on food – donate leftovers to a local shelter like the Nashville Rescue Mission.
The River Center offers 100 dinner plates, flatware, water glasses & wine glasses for use at your event!
Event Waste
Offer recycling and composting to your guests. Metro Works offers free recycling & composting bins — as long as you promise to responsibly dispose of all collected items. Compost Nashville proudly offers compost pick-up.
The River Center offers in-house recycling and compost collection!
Decor
Go simple – houseplants, utilize your backyard (cut flowers from your garden or branches from your bushes/trees). If arrangements are a must, donate them at the end of the night to your local hospital.
Want to go further with your sustainable event planning? Check out this great checklist created by FSU’s Sustainable Campus.
Photo Creds: swak photography